Social entities of the Church in Mallorca have issued a strong message about the severe housing crisis affecting the island, warning that even employed individuals are now facing homelessness due to the lack of access to adequate housing. Cáritas Mallorca, La Sapiencia, and Sojorn reported that during 2023, they assisted 815 people in such situations, but are now unable to meet the increasing daily demand from those seeking shelter.
This phenomenon reflects an alarming increase in the vulnerability of families and individuals who, despite having income, face obstacles such as lack of privacy, safety, health, and the inability to afford rent. In many cases, wages are not enough to cover the rising housing costs on the island.
New profiles of homeless people
The entities emphasize that the crisis has generated new profiles of homeless individuals, including workers with insufficient wages to afford rent, elderly people with low pensions, and those suffering from mental health issues who lack support networks. Additionally, immigrants awaiting the regularization of their status are forced to survive in extremely precarious conditions.
A call for solidarity
In response to this emergency, the organizations call for greater social awareness toward those excluded from housing. They insist that solutions are not only the responsibility of the public administration but also require the involvement of property owners, urging them to make their properties available for social housing. They also advocate for rent caps.
“Caminemos juntos” Campaign
As part of Homelessness Awareness Day on October 27, the “Caminemos juntos” campaign has been launched to raise awareness about this issue through the stories of those affected. In the coming days, events will take place, such as the reading of a manifesto in various parishes and a march in November, to highlight the violation of rights that homeless individuals face in Mallorca.
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