One-third of Athens homeless unhoused for over five years
Nearly one in three homeless people in Athens has been without stable housing for more than five years, while the majority are over the age of 50 and became homeless because of financial hardship, according to a new survey released by the City of Athens.
The study, conducted in October in cooperation with Panteion University and volunteers as part of a European Union programme covering 35 cities, surveyed 681 homeless people across the Greek capital.
According to the findings, 31.6% had been homeless for more than five years, while 24.9% had been without housing for between two and five years. Men accounted for about two-thirds of respondents, 70% were Greek nationals, and 62% were over the age of 50. Only 8% were younger than 30.
Financial difficulties were cited as the main reason for homelessness by 72.2% of respondents, followed by health problems or addiction (37.9%) and family-related issues (30.2%), highlighting the multiple factors contributing to homelessness.
Deputy Mayor for Social Solidarity Mina Foundzoula described homelessness as one of Athens' most pressing social challenges, saying the findings provide valuable data to help shape policies addressing the needs of vulnerable residents.
The municipality said its outreach teams currently support around 1,400 people experiencing homelessness, with about half living on the streets or in other precarious conditions. It also provides temporary accommodation and supported housing through municipal and government-funded programmes aimed at helping people regain independent living.
Source:Kathimerini
