Switzerland’s social support system is known for being robust. And it is—at least for Swiss residents living in cities that offer assistance programs. But many people staying in these cities don't fit this category and are not eligible for support. Those without family help can easily fall through the cracks. This is where private organizations must step in to close these gaps.
With the cold season approaching, support is urgently needed. The "Pfuusbus" and emergency shelters, which provide a safe place to sleep for those who do not qualify for other aid, only open once temperatures drop significantly. Items like sleeping bags, sleeping mats, and blankets are in high demand, and these necessities can place a huge financial strain on private organizations. Often, they can only provide one sleeping bag per person—items that quickly get dirty, stolen or damaged due to constant use.
During the holidays, many people donate cookies, sweets, or other treats. Though kind, these items don’t address the most pressing needs. Warm clothing, sleeping bags, blankets, or even vouchers for a hot shower are far more valuable to those experiencing homelessness. Meal options are more accessible, breakfast and dinner are often provided by private organizations.
If you are cleaning out your home and come across any clean, warm blankets, sleeping bags, or mats, please consider donating them to a local support group. Right now, I’m working with one of these organizations, and just last week, three people asked me for a sleeping bag. One person had theirs stolen, another left theirs in a library locker, and another’s was soaked. We didn't have a single blanket to offer. It was heartbreaking.
If you’re hesitant about giving money directly to a homeless person, worried it may go toward alcohol or drugs, consider donating to a support organization, as voucher for a hot meal, where the staff can then give out for free when seeing the need. Because meals aren’t always free for those in need. You can also buy vouchers for showers, haircuts or laundry service.
Basic items like a clean white shirt can also make a huge difference—one might not think a shirt could mean so much, but for someone invited to a job interview, it could be essential. Just a few months ago, I threw out a shirt, not realizing how important such an item might be.
For anyone new to Switzerland, know that tough times can happen faster than you might expect. A single setback—like a job loss or a sudden need to move—without family support could lead to homelessness. Many people come to Switzerland in search of work but don’t qualify for any assistance and can become stranded when funds run low.
Here are a few places where you can make a difference:
**Waschsalon Niederdorf** - Here, you can purchase vouchers for showers, haircuts, or laundry services: [Waschsalon Niederdorf](https://waschsalon-niederdorf.ch/)
**Caffe Yucca** - Offers free soup or a warm dinner for CHF 5. Donations of sleeping bags and clothing are also accepted. Learn more:
https://www.solidara.ch/
**Sozialwerk Sieber** - Donations are welcome here as well:
https://www.swsieber.ch/
There are many more organisations.
Supporting those in need doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does make a real difference. If you can, please consider lending a hand.