MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE

The homeless shelter of the City Red Cross of Skopje in Momin Potok operates t a capacity of 160 homeless people by providing beds during winter, medical check-ups, MHPSS services, meals and drinks, laundry and barber services, social support and counselling services to its visitors. In partnership with the AutRC it is now implementing the PREOP project funded by the City of Vienna to reduce poverty via the provision of basic needs and job trainings for homeless people frequenting its shelter, with a special focus also on homeless women.

To tackle some of the challenges that are specific to homeless women, an information session on women’s health focusing on sexual health, reproductive rights and menstrual hygiene management (MHM) was held by an expert from the NGO HERA with 20 women in May 2023. During this session participants discussed threats and challenges to women’s health, received recommendations on MHM, prevention and protection from sexually transmitted diseases, and learned about the correct use of contraception, prevention of unwanted pregnancies and the consequences of sexual abuse.

While further empowerment activities on violence prevention and for strengthening the social and vocational skills of 20 homeless people are under preparation, the homeless shelter is currently undergoing a physical transformation with beds being repaired and disinfected, two new laundry machines being installed, a large refrigerator and new wardrobes being procured, and solar panels being fitted on the roof to continuously supply the shelter with hot water during the winter months. Via this refurbishment basic needs will be met, without a doubt. But it is also an attempt at making the shelter feel more like home to those who lost their own.

Altogether, the PREOP project contributes to improving the situation of homeless people in the city of Skopje, particularly homeless women, by shining a spotlight on those, who so often remain invisible.