Rivierenland, Belgium – A recent count reveals 1,374 individuals experiencing homelessness in the Rivierenland region of Belgium, including hundreds of children. The figures underscore a growing trend of housing insecurity linked to broader economic pressures.
The data, compiled by regional authorities, shows a diverse group facing homelessness, with a significant portion comprised of young adults. One young woman, identified only as Lisa, shared her experience, stating, “As a young woman, you are never safe on the street.”
Experts point to the rising cost of living as a major contributing factor. The situation is not limited to those traditionally considered vulnerable; officials report seeing an increase in individuals who have simply fallen on hard times. “You see now people who just had lousy luck,” one official noted.
The numbers represent a noticeable increase in homelessness across the Flanders region of Belgium. The tally includes both those living on the streets and those without a stable home, highlighting the breadth of the crisis.
According to reports, young adults now account for as much as one-fourth of the total homeless population. One young man described his first night sleeping in his car as “a real hell.”
Regional authorities are working to address the issue, with the Province of Antwerp recently investing €5 million in green playgrounds. Regional Landscape Rivierenland is also focusing on projects related to landscape management, nature conservation, education, and landscape recreation in an effort to bolster the region’s identity and support its residents.
The data from Rivierenland comes as part of a broader national effort to understand and combat homelessness, with the Landelijk Informatiesysteem van Arbeidsplaatsen (LISA) recently publishing data on employment and establishments across the Netherlands. The data is available by sector and region.
