Solidarity for the homeless: Oschatz defends himself against the demolition of the bank!

Solidarity for the homeless: Oschatz defends himself against the demolition of the bank!

In Oschatz, a homeless man is causing a stir because he has placed his belongings in a bus stop near the cemetery. The 53-year-old, who once led a regular life, refuses to be placed in an emergency shelter and instead resolutely stays in his place. This not only made his personal situation the subject of discussion, but also triggered a wave of solidarity. The city administration had originally planned to dismantle the bench at the stop, which led to massive protests.

On Monday evening, over 30 people gathered at the site to show their support for the man. “We want to make a statement,” explained a resident, who discussed the worrying situation surrounding the man. The residents bring warm drinks and food to the bus stop and support him with various offers of help. It is reported that the homeless man has a sleeping bag, a wool blanket, a small suitcase and several bags with him and wishes he doesn't have to leave his belongings behind.

Background and support

The man had once lived in Bautzen and Oschatz and became homeless after falling ill. Despite several offers and attempts to help from the city, which offered emergency accommodation for him, he decided to stay at the bus stop. Given the limited space in emergency shelters, there is often only a short-term solution. He emphasizes that he doesn't drink, doesn't take drugs and is always polite.

“It is important to support people like him,” says Katja Suda, spokeswoman for the city of Oschatz. She confirms that the bank will not be dismantled for the time being and that a permanent, satisfactory solution is being worked on. In this context, it is also important to mention the offers of the German Red Cross (DRK). In addition to emergency accommodation, this includes numerous low-threshold assistance such as advice and support centers as well as medical care and warming rooms during the cold months.

Birgit Friedrich from the Oschatzer Tafel also expresses her concern and describes that the man has rejected previous offers of help. Nevertheless, there are numerous initiatives in the area. “We offer weekly exchange meetings to help homeless people,” she reports. In addition, there is always voluntary support from the population, who not only distributes warm meals, but also clothing and sleeping bags. The citizens' commitment shows that the people of Oschatz are able to act with heart and empathy.

The man's ongoing situation and the community's response shed light on the challenges of homelessness in Germany, which can receive comprehensive support from the DRK. This relies on respectful treatment of people in need, as described on the DRK website. With the current debate about the homeless man in Oschatz, it is clear that such an issue not only affects those affected, but also has a strong influence on the neighborhood.