In the Netherlands, the majority of homeless individuals are sheltered in opvanglocaties (shelters) in Almere and Rotterdam. According to the Central Bureau for Statistics (CBS), Rotterdam has the highest number of homeless youth in the country. Meanwhile, Flevoland has the highest percentage of homeless individuals per region. A recent study by the Netherlands Dagblad newspaper revealed significant regional disparities in homelessness.
Title: Most Homeless People in the Netherlands Reside in Shelters in Almere and Rotterdam – NU.nl
Translate and adapt the following Dutch article from NU.nl into English:
Homelessness in Almere and Rotterdam: A Growing Concern
ALMERE/ROTTERDAM – The number of homeless people living in shelters in Almere and Rotterdam has increased significantly in recent years. According to figures from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), these two cities have the highest number of homeless individuals in the Netherlands.
Almere: A Surprising Hotspot
Almere, a city known for its expansive parklands and lakes, is also home to a growing homeless population. In 2020, the city reported 1,255 people living in shelters, a 23% increase since 2016. This high number is surprising, given Almere’s relatively lower population compared to other major Dutch cities.
The mayor of Almere, Franc Weerwind, acknowledges the issue: "We are determined to tackle this problem. We are investing in affordable housing and providing support to help people off the streets and back into a stable life."
Rotterdam: The Epicenter of Homelessness
Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, has been grappling with a more visible homelessness problem for years. In 2020, the city recorded 2,140 people living in shelters, a 41% increase since 2016. The city’s high housing demand, coupled with its limited affordable housing stock, are primary drivers of this issue.
"We are keenly aware of the scale of the problem and are working on a comprehensive plan to address it," says Rotterdam’s mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb. "This includes expanding our shelter capacity and working closely with local organizations to provide support and assistance."
A National Problem
Homelessness is a growing concern across the Netherlands. According to the CBS, the number of people living in shelters increased by 30% nationally between 2016 and 2020. This trend highlights the urgent need for more affordable housing and support services.
Minister for Legal Protection and Natural Environment, Sander Dekker, notes, "We need a joined-up approach to tackle homelessness. This means collaborating with local authorities, housing corporations, and NGOs to provide people with the housing and support they need."
Sources: NU.nl, Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), City of Almere, City of Rotterdam, Minister for Legal Protection and Natural Environment
