Heat and help sought at railway mission - Numbers rising - Heat and help sought at railway mission - Numbers rising
Germany’s Bahnhofsmission is facing record demand as more people turn to its services for support. This year alone, around 200,000 individuals in Lower Saxony and Bremen have sought help—nearly 20,000 more than in 2024. The organisation now prepares for an even busier period ahead of Christmas, when needs typically peak.
The surge in demand reflects deeper social challenges. Rising poverty, homelessness, and a lack of affordable housing have pushed more people toward Bahnhofsmission’s doors. Many arrive early in the morning, seeking warmth after being evicted from shelters or sleeping rough. Others simply need a cup of tea, a conversation, or a place to escape the cold.
Digital barriers also play a role. Older adults, people with disabilities, and those struggling with mental health often find online ticketing and travel information confusing. Volunteers frequently assist with train cancellations, ticket issues, or personal crises—sometimes spending hours securing emergency shelter, as in the case of a young woman fleeing domestic violence in Bremen.
Food assistance has become another critical service. With living costs climbing, more visitors rely on weekend food packages to get by. The pandemic initially slowed demand due to restricted station hours, but numbers have since rebounded sharply. In 2023, Bahnhofsmission provided over 1.2 million consultations nationwide, a figure that continues to grow.
The organisation is now gearing up for the holiday season, planning festive breakfasts, Christmas Eve services, and care packages. Yet the underlying pressures—poverty, housing shortages, and social isolation—show no signs of easing. Without broader changes, demand for these essential services is likely to keep rising.
