The regional government, in consultation and with the support of the federal government within the framework of the Brussels Deal, has decided to activate the Extreme Cold Plan. Of the 160 additional places made available, 150 will be opened by the Belgian Red Cross for single men, while Samusocial will offer 10 additional places in its medical centre to accommodate particularly vulnerable men and women. The emergency shelters will operate 24/7 and offer a safe place to sleep, access to sanitary facilities, hot meals, and referrals to additional support services. Individuals in need can secure a place by dialling Samusocial's free emergency hotline at 0800 99 340.

The plan will remain active for one month, with an evaluation and potential extension scheduled for 7 February 2025. Additional actions are being taken to safeguard vulnerable individuals during freezing temperatures. The MIVB and NMBS have decided to keep various metro stations and Brussels South Station accessible to homeless people. Moreover, several municipalities in Brussels are launching localized initiatives to assist those in need. Everyone's vigilance can obviously make a difference: in the event of encountering a person in difficulty, please dial the above-mentioned number to help rescue and shelter people in need.

For further information, please read this press release from Samusocial and other press releases from Belga News Agency or vrt nws.