Prague to Open Winter Shelters for Homeless People on December 1

As temperatures drop, Prague is preparing expanded winter shelters for its homeless population.

Starting December 1, the city, in partnership with the Social Services Center (CSSP) and non-profit organizations, will increase its capacity to provide safe, warm spaces for those in need.

The initiative includes field programs, hygiene centers, and hospital crisis beds, extending support through the harsh winter months until March 31.

Like in previous years, day centers will extend their hours, and emergency facilities will operate continuously to ensure round-the-clock care.

Prague will enhance its field programs, deploying teams to assist homeless individuals on the streets. These workers will provide medical assistance and transport individuals to appropriate facilities, especially during freezing conditions.

The initiative also emphasizes stronger collaboration with social workers, police, and emergency services.

Crisis Beds and Hygiene Centers

Hospitals will again offer crisis beds to those in need. Last winter, Na Františku Hospital and the aftercare hospital in Vysočany hosted several such beds, which are expected to be available again this year. Hygiene centers will also operate, enabling individuals to wash, change clothes, and receive essential care.

Support from Non-Profit Organizations

Key non-profit organizations, including Naděje, the Salvation Army, and the Archdiocesan Charity, play a vital role in assisting the homeless during winter. Naděje, for instance, manages a night shelter, a mobile outreach team, and a night hygiene center.

“We are also distributing winter clothing sourced from collections and direct purchases,” said Hana Šimková, Naděje’s communications manager.

The exact number of homeless people in Prague remains unclear, but estimates suggest several thousand, with many lacking official residency in the city.

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