Aid for the Homeless in Mainz
In an effort to combat homelessness and provide effective support, the Mainz association "Poverty and Health" has been advocating for community-based interventions that prioritize health access and multiple disadvantage coordination.
Social worker Nele Wilk, a key figure in the association, urges people not to give money to homeless individuals without first understanding their needs. Instead, she suggests asking what they need before buying something for them. This approach, Wilk claims, can help ensure that assistance is targeted and beneficial.
Many people harbour fears and avoid interacting with homeless individuals on the street. Wilk and the Mainz association acknowledge this apprehension, stating that passers-by often ignore homeless people out of uncertainty. However, Wilk advises against such indifference and encourages people to talk to homeless individuals if they are seen lying on the street, as it's more likely they are sleeping.
Dr. Gerhard Trabert, a social physician and doctor for the homeless in Mainz, has observed that many homeless people are dehydrated. Alcohol, which can be life-threatening for homeless individuals, dehydrates the body, according to Trabert.
To raise awareness about homelessness, the Mainz association has been organising information evenings for citizens. The latest event took place on Tuesday, where attendees discussed effective ways to help homeless people in everyday life.
The association's approach emphasizes outreach work, peer support, health service accessibility, and integrated care tailored to the complex realities of homeless individuals' lives. This includes providing access to hygiene facilities, food, supportive counseling, connections to housing services, and health care. The focus is on meeting immediate needs with compassion and practical outreach rather than institutionalization or punitive measures.
If a homeless person does not react or seems completely disoriented when approached, it's recommended to call for help. The Mainz association provides guidance on how to help homeless people, but Wilk did not specify what specific items or actions are most helpful in everyday life.
Wilk also emphasizes the importance of respect when dealing with the homeless. She states that it is not necessary to give money to homeless people to help them. Instead, she encourages people to engage in meaningful conversations and offer assistance that addresses the individual's specific needs.
In cold weather, a homeless person lying on the street could be experiencing a medical emergency. Therefore, it's crucial to approach such situations with sensitivity and caution, and to call for help if necessary.
The Mainz association "Poverty and Health" believes that homelessness can happen to anyone. By promoting community-based, dignified support interventions, they aim to create a society where everyone has access to the basic necessities and the support they need to live a healthy, fulfilling life.
[1] Source: Mainz Association "Poverty and Health" Website [2] Source: The Guardian
In the context of community-based interventions, the Mainz Association "Poverty and Health" suggests focusing on home-and-garden aspects as well, ensuring that homeless individuals have access to clean and safe living spaces.
Moreover, social worker Nele Wilk encourages people to reconsider their lifestyles, stressing the importance of providing tailored help that caters to the unique needs of each homeless individual, rather than just offering monetary aid.
