Solingen unveils bold long-term plan to combat homelessness by 2026
Solingen – A key issue will take center stage at the upcoming meeting of the Committee for Social Affairs, Health, and Community Participation on April 21, 2026: measures to combat homelessness. In a cross-party initiative, a motion has been tabled calling on the city of Solingen to adopt a structured, long-term strategy to address the crisis.
At its core, the proposal recognizes that homelessness is not merely an acute humanitarian issue but also carries far-reaching social and economic consequences. Policymakers must therefore aim to combine short-term aid with sustainable solutions—not just providing temporary relief but enabling those affected to achieve lasting stability in their lives.
Housing First as a Guiding Principle
A central element of the motion is the adoption of the "Housing First" approach as the cornerstone of municipal homelessness assistance. This model prioritizes the rapid provision of permanent housing, while flexible, needs-based support services are tailored to individual circumstances. Internationally, this approach has proven highly effective in preventing people from returning to homelessness.
Improved Coordination and Expansion of Existing Services
The city administration is also tasked with exploring ways to better coordinate and enhance current support programs. Particular attention will be given to often-overlooked needs, such as accommodating homeless individuals with pets. Additionally, future demand for additional housing must be assessed in advance.
Successful Pilot Project to Become Permanent
Positive results have already been achieved through the state-funded "ProMie+ Solingen" initiative, which focuses on integrating long-term homeless individuals into stable housing. The administration has been instructed to develop a plan for transitioning this project into a permanent program.
Prevention and Low-Threshold Support as Priorities
Another key focus is on preventive measures. The Central Office for Emergency Housing Assistance has been delivering successful outcomes in this area for years. Now, efforts will be made to expand services that can prevent impending homelessness at an early stage and improve access to support.
The motion also calls for strengthening low-threshold health and counseling services. Outreach work will be deployed strategically to reach those who have so far had no contact with the support system. Estimates suggest that around 20 people in Solingen are currently living without any shelter. Targeted trust-building initiatives will be developed for this group.
Furthermore, collaboration among existing stakeholders will be intensified. The feasibility of "guide services"—designed to better coordinate the work of railway mission teams, outreach workers, and addiction support services—will be examined.
Regular Progress Reports Planned
To ensure the effectiveness of these measures, their impact will be systematically documented. Reports from the Central Office for Emergency Housing Assistance will be expanded to serve as a basis for political decision-making.
With this motion, policymakers aim not just to manage homelessness in Solingen but to actively and sustainably combat it. The committee's deliberations are thus expected to set a decisive course for the city's future social policy.
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