Barcelona homeless crisis has reached alarming new levels with nearly one in five people living in precarious settlements being children under 18.
The shocking statistic emerged after Tuesday’s early morning fire in makeshift shelters between Bac de Roda and Huelva streets, highlighting the city’s growing housing emergency.
According to data from the Barcelona City Council, 536 people currently survive in informal settlements and occupied properties across the city.
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Meanwhile, the situation reflects broader challenges in Barcelona’s housing market where availability continues to shrink.
Barcelona Homeless Crisis Extends Beyond Street Sleepers
The Barcelona homeless crisis encompasses more than just those sleeping rough. Furthermore, the city’s emergency accommodation system faces severe pressure with waiting times stretching seven to eight months for a residential place.
Consequently, many families with children resort to dangerous living conditions. The recent fire injured two residents, but similar incidents have proven fatal in the past.
Urban Guard cleared the settlements after firefighters identified “very serious risks” to inhabitants. Therefore, the immediate danger has been addressed, but the underlying housing shortage remains unresolved.
Additionally, the Arrels Foundation is preparing a new count of rough sleepers for December 3rd. Their previous survey in December 2023 detected 1,384 people without homes, representing a 14% increase over two years.
The districts most affected by this Barcelona homeless crisis include Ciutat Vella with 339 rough sleepers, Eixample with 302, and Sants-Montjuïc with 209. Moreover, the city currently hosts 110 occupied spaces, comprising 62 settlements and 48 commercial properties.
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