Berlin opens new shelter for homeless children and youth in Lichtenberg

Berlin opened a new seven-story shelter for homeless children and youth on Friday, providing immediate housing and long-term support to address rising urban homelessness. The Butze facility, operated by the Straßenkinder association, is located at the S- and U-Bahnhof Lichtenberg and offers 41 residential units, including emergency beds, apartments and micro-apartments, across 36,500 square feet.
The building also houses a warming room, social and legal counseling, workshops, training rooms, showers, laundry facilities and a clothing bank. It will serve as a base for street outreach workers. Eckhard Baumann, the association’s chair, said the shelter aims to give homeless minors stability and a chance to restart their lives. “The Butze is more than a refuge and a safe home—it is a house of opportunities where we give street children appreciation and the chance for a fresh start,” Baumann said.
According to Straßenkinder, at least 6,500 minors are currently living on the streets in Germany. The €23 million project is fully funded by donations. An open house is planned for Sunday.
Follow us for live European news

