Issue subpage
How to help Berlin homeless people
Practical, consent-based ways to support people without secure housing in Berlin.
Overview
Helpful action starts with treating the person as the expert on their own situation. If direct contact feels safe and appropriate, ask what they need before deciding what help to offer or which service to call. Both Berliner Stadtmission and DRK Berlin ask helpers to speak with the person before calling seasonal outreach when possible.12
Immediate situations
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Person is unconscious, seriously ill, injured, or not responsive | Call 112. Do not wait for outreach services. |
| Cold-weather risk, person is awake and wants help | Ask for consent, then call a cold aid or outreach bus such as Berliner Stadtmission Kältebus or DRK Wärmebus during their seasonal hours.12 |
| Person asks for practical support | Offer concrete options: water, food, warm drink, hygiene items, a source link, or help finding the nearest open service. |
Good helper habits
- Ask before touching belongings, taking photos, calling a bus, or sharing location information.
- Use clear offers instead of vague promises.
- Prefer current source links and official pages for opening times, phone numbers, and seasonal services.
- For donations, check what organizations currently request before dropping off goods.
- For longer-term involvement, volunteer through teams that train and coordinate helpers.