Homelessness in Finland on the rise for second year running – Red Cross offers support
The Finnish Red Cross is working to prevent homelessness, provides support and will take part in Night of the Homeless events across the country.
Cuts to social security, coupled with rising living costs and rents, are putting people under growing financial strain and increasing the risk of homelessness.
Homelessness in Finland has been on the rise for two years in a row. In 2024, homelessness in Finland began to rise for the first time since 2012 (source: Centre for State-Subsidised Housing Construction, in Finnish).
In November 2025, there were 20 per cent more homeless people living alone in Finland than the previous year.
“Homelessness is not just a problem faced by those who have fallen through the cracks in society’s safety net. The high cost of housing and financial difficulties increase the risk of homelessness for people in a wide range of life situations, such as low-income workers, students and families with children. Not having a home of one’s own causes a deep sense of insecurity,” says Petra Lemmetty, a specialist in supporting inclusion from the Finnish Red Cross.
A home provides the foundation for a worthwhile life and strengthens the sense of inclusion. Our work to prevent homelessness includes substance abuse support, prison visits, youth shelters and helping young people who are becoming independent to find their own home and keep it. We also offer other free, easily accessible support services, such as food aid, health promotion and online discussion support.
Finnish Red Cross to take part in Night of the Homeless
The Night of the Homeless is organised to honour the UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which is observed annually on 17 October.
The Night of the Homeless event raises awareness of homelessness, poverty, social exclusion and inequality.
The theme for the 2026 Night of the Homeless is Visible, Yet Invisible – Male Homelessness in Finland (in Finnish).
The Red Cross will take part in the Night of the Homeless in the following towns and cities (the list is being updated):
Forssa: Forssa Market Square, Torikatu. 17 October, 5:00–8:00 pm. The joint event will feature music, distribution of food, clothing and hygiene supplies, material assistance, basic fire-extinguishing training, and guidance services.
Hämeenlinna: Hämeenlinna Market Square and Palokunnankatu 20. 17 October, 4:00–8:00 pm. At this joint event organized by local NGOs, the Finnish Red Cross Health Point will offer blood pressure and blood sugar checks and distribute essential items. Material assistance such as bread, snacks, hot juice, woollen socks and mittens will also be available, along with opportunities for supportive conversations.
Iisalmi: Pohjoinen Puistoraitti. 17 October, 3:00–8:00 pm. The event will offer warm soup, coffee, tea and rolls. There will also be a painting workshop, peer support, discussions, clothing distribution, and information about first aid and Red Cross activities.
Joroinen: Myrskylyhty Activity Centre, Koskentie 9. 16 October, 11:00 am–1:00 pm (please note the date and time). The joint event will include a community lunch and coffee, as well as opportunities for supportive discussion and possibly social counselling.
Jämsä: Parking area behind Forum, Talvialantie 2. 16 October, 4:00–8:30 pm (please note the date and time). Organized by Central Finland Wellbeing Services County's adult social work services and local organizations, the event will offer food, clothing and goods distribution, music, a homelessness-themed exhibition, and presentations of Red Cross activities. The event will also mark the opening of Walk in Olkkari, a low-threshold meeting place for people who use substances. Services include health advice, social counselling, access to washing facilities and laundry services, and a warm meal.
Kokkola: Villa Hietala, Laajalahdentie 83 A. 17 October, 6:00–10:00 pm. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a meal, use the sauna and spend time together. Soup, pancakes, snacks and winter jackets will be available. Staff members and volunteers from various organizations will also be present to provide guidance, conversation and support in accessing services.
Kotka: Finnish Red Cross Kotka Branch, Tarinatie 2. 15 October, 11:00 am–3:00 pm (please note the date and time). Free distribution of clothing and household items, along with soup and coffee. Participants can also receive support, guidance and opportunities for discussion.
Kuopio: Harbour Market Square, Kauppakatu 1. 17 October, 2:00–5:00 pm. The event will feature the traditional Night of the Homeless bonfires, speeches, music, dance performances and presentations by different organizations. Visitors can enjoy soup served from a field kitchen, grilled sausages, free haircuts provided by Hair'n Roll, and donated goods. Guidance, advice and opportunities for conversation and connection will also be available.
Kuusankoski (Kouvola): Kouvolan Kipinä Association, Kauppakatu 5 A. 17 October, 5:00–7:30 pm. The joint event will offer food, companionship and an opportunity to discuss participants' needs and wishes. Supportive conversations and social interaction will also be available.
