Depaul Slovensko warns of rising homelessness in Slovakia

The non-profit organization Depaul Slovensko is highlighting the growing issue of homelessness and the lack of accessible housing in Slovakia. Marking International Homeless Persons Day, the organization emphasizes that a safe and dignified night of sleep is a fundamental human right and a necessary first step for individuals to begin addressing their complex life situations.

According to the 2021 census, more than 71,000 people live without a home in Slovakia, while nearly one million people live near the poverty line. Depaul Slovensko has provided social services for 20 years, assisting approximately 2,500 people in need annually. In 2025, the organization successfully transitioned 62 individuals into stable housing, including 10 who were previously living on the streets.

Director Jozef Kákoš noted that society often views housing as something a homeless person must 'earn' by meeting strict conditions, which ignores the exhaustion and stress of street life that prevents people from planning for the future. The organization operates several facilities, including the St. Vincent de Paul Shelter, the St. Louise Shelter for the sick, and various low-threshold hygiene and nursing centers.