Saarland to integrate Housing First into standard social services

The German state of Saarland plans to transition the “Housing First” model into its regular social service system by 2027, making it the first large state to do so. The initiative aims to break the cycle of homelessness by providing individuals with permanent housing and fixed rental contracts without preconditions.

Unlike traditional models that require individuals to address issues like mental health or substance abuse before securing housing, this approach uses stable housing as a foundation for recovery and social reintegration. The program primarily targets homeless individuals facing mental health challenges or problematic drug and alcohol consumption.

Since its introduction in Saarbrücken in 2018 and expansion to Völklingen in 2025, the project has successfully placed 45 apartments. A study by the Gesellschaft für innovative Sozialforschung und Sozialplanung indicates that over 80 percent of participants have maintained their housing status.