Athens City Hall plans to open night shelter for homeless

Athens Mayor Giorgos Kaminis on Wednesday said City Hall is planning to open an overnight shelter for the capital’s homeless, who so far have only had access to daytime accommodation and shower facilities.

Speaking on Alpha radio, Kaminis said the crisis has exacerbated the problem, both by increasing the homeless population – estimated at 1,200-1,500 in central Athens alone – and biting into resources.

He said the municipality has managed to find housing for 30 homeless families, adding that an overnight shelter would provide relief for homeless people reluctant to abandon their spot on the street.