Assistance for Housing Security, Lower Austria

On behalf of the State of Lower Austria, the Housing Security Assistance continuously provides grants to non-profit organizations such as interest groups or associations for specialized counseling and support services. Regionally active counseling centers of the Working Group Housing Security Lower Austria (ARGE), including the Wohnen St. Pölten association, Caritas of the Archdiocese of Vienna, Caritas of the Diocese of St. Pölten, the V.B.O. Association for Care and Orientation, as well as BEWOK – Counseling Against Housing Loss, collaborate with professionally trained staff (lawyers, social educators, social workers). In a low-threshold, free, and confidential service, the focus is on preventive interventions in cases of rent arrears, clarification of legal matters, and psychosocial support. The funding program aims to prevent imminent homelessness and to provide affected individuals with sustainable social and housing stability.

Eligible for funding are non-profit organizations with demonstrated need that enter into a contract pursuant to § 48 para. 3 NÖ SHG and meet the criteria of § 48 para. 4 NÖ SHG. Applications can be submitted year-round, enabling needs-based project planning. The funding focuses on support services for persons threatened by housing loss or already homeless, thereby contributing to the stabilization of life situations. Through continuous financial support, comprehensive counseling structures in the Lower Austria and Vienna regions are secured, which not only manage acute crises but also contribute to long-term social integration and housing stability. Since the program’s inception in 2013, it has significantly contributed to improving quality of life and reducing homelessness within the funding area.