Father Frost is here. But not every Upper Austrian can or wants to retreat to warm four walls. Compatriots report homeless people on the cold phone – but not everyone wants help.
It is estimated that around 1,000 Upper Austrians are affected, and there are said to be 400 homeless people in Linz. “We know most of the people on our cold hotline,” says Christian Gaiseder of social association B37, whose employees are on the phone.
Hundreds of reports per winter
During the winter season approximately 100 reports are received; in November there were ten this year. “We follow up on every tip,” says street worker Dietmar Mayr. Almost everyone traveling in Linz has seen ‘Mr. P.’ seen – he is always with his lounger and two suitcases – or the praying woman who lives in the bus shelter near the music theater. They are often reported, but refuse shelter. The bus station at the train station, the former Leiner building and some hotspots on the Danube and Bindermichl are regularly visited by the helpers, but are also reported again and again.
There are hardly any deaths
At the beginning of the winter season, those who want to stay outside are provided with warm clothing; a good sleeping bag is important. “We haven’t had any frostbite deaths in years,” the helpers say.
Refrigerated telephone 0732/776767-560 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon
Email: kaelteschutz@b37.at
They are visible, the homeless, whom we often push aside out of shame. At least some of us answer the phone. Commendable.
But it’s like an iceberg. Only the point is visible here. Below, many fight to avoid being washed to the surface. Here it is up to those affected to actively seek help. And it is up to each of us to look and listen carefully to see if our acquaintance, friend or family member may just be keeping up appearances, but is already caught in a vortex that is dragging them down. Each of us can respond to that.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
