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Hamburg's Housing First Project Becomes Permanent Success

After exceeding expectations in its pilot phase, Hamburg's Housing First project is now a permanent service. It's already transforming lives, like those of David and Vitalij.

In this picture there are buildings on the right side of the image, there are poles and cars in the...
In this picture there are buildings on the right side of the image, there are poles and cars in the center of the image, there is a mcdonalds pole on the left side of the image, it seems to be the road side view.

Hamburg's Housing First Project Becomes Permanent Success

Hamburg's First Watch project, initially a time-limited initiative launched in 2022, has become a permanent service since September 1, 2023. The pilot phase in Hamburg exceeded expectations, housing 39 homeless individuals, surpassing the initial target of 30. The First Watch concept, proven successful internationally, has now been integrated into regular homeless services in Hamburg.

The First Watch approach prioritizes providing homeless individuals with a stable home first, before tackling other issues such as employment or mental health. This method has shown positive results in Hamburg's pilot project. Nina Behlau, the project leader, reports a positive interim balance. Following housing placement, support services and assistance from social workers are offered on a voluntary basis.

David Beckham and Vitalij are two of the 39 individuals who have found a home through this initiative. Their success stories highlight the potential of the First Watch approach in transforming lives.

Since September, First Watch has been a regular service in Hamburg, offering hope and stability to the homeless. With positive interim results and successful stories like David Beckham and Vitalij's, the city continues to support this effective approach to tackling homelessness.

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