For most of us, it is natural to come home, take off our shoes on a clean floor, and put our things in our own wardrobe. However, for homeless people, these "ordinary" things are often an unaffordable luxury. At The Salvation Army, we believe that the journey back to life begins in an environment that does not degrade a person, but lifts them up.
That is why we embarked on an important transformation in the men's shelter in Hlohovec. The goal was clear: to transform dilapidated spaces into a dignified place for life.
When old is no longer enough
The shelter building, which belongs to the city, has served people in need for many years. However, time has taken its toll on it. In the rooms, we were troubled by old linoleum, which was literally falling apart in places, and carpets that were almost impossible to keep hygienically clean.
The situation with furniture was even worse. Some clients slept on old military cots that had long since failed to meet safety standards. And privacy? That was almost non-existent. There were no cupboards where men could safely store the few personal belongings they had left.
What did we manage to change?
Thanks to a successful project called "Shelter Renewal", we managed to eliminate these shortcomings. These were not just cosmetic adjustments, but functional changes that our clients felt immediately:
- New floor underfoot: We completely replaced the PVC floor covering in three rooms. The new surface is not only more aesthetic but, above all, easy to maintain and disinfect, which is crucial in common areas.
- Quality sleep: We purchased 3 new bunk beds, which replaced the most damaged ones. They are sturdy, safe, and space-saving.
- Safe place for personal items: 10 new metal lockers were added to the rooms. It might seem like a detail, but having a place to lock up documents or clothes gives a person a sense of security and personal space that they lost on the street.
Partnership that makes sense
This project would not have been possible without strong partnership. The total costs for renewing equipment and floors exceeded €5,600.
This renovation is not just about new furniture. It is about the signal we send to our clients: We care about you and we believe you are capable of more. In a clean and dignified environment, it is much easier to find motivation for a new beginning.