'Extreme cold' plan activated for Brussels homeless

Brussels activated its "extreme cold" plan this week in an effort to provide extra shelter and support to the region’s homeless population during the freezing temperatures.

The plan will be in effect for one month, with the possibility of an extension depending on weather conditions, according to Bruss'help, the organisation coordinating aid for the homeless in the capital.

Bruss'help said that it alerted the regional authorities to the drop in temperatures and the high demand from many people without accommodation, prompting the government to enact the plan in consultation and with the support of the federal government under the Brussels Deal.

Under this arrangement, the federal government partially offsets the costs associated with homelessness in the capital.

Bruss'help said hat 160 extra places in shelters would be added from to the nearly 2,600 emergency places already open thanks to the various emergency reception operators (Samusocial, BelRefugees, the Belgian Red Cross, Ukrainian Voices, Pierre d'Angle and the Ariane centre).

Of the 160 places, 150 places will be opened by the Belgian Red Cross for single men, while the Samusocial will offer 10 extra places in its medical centre for men and women considered particularly vulnerable.

The accommodation provided under the plan entails 24-hour residential care, providing people with a bed, access to sanitary facilities, hot meals and permanent referral to support services.

Those in need of this help - or anyone who finds someone in need - can call Samusocial on 0800 99 340.