Homeless crisis in Malaga: Red Cross report says hundreds of people are living on the streets of the Costa del Sol city

MALAGA’S spiralling housing costs are forcing more and more people to live in the streets, according to the Red Cross.

The charity estimates that some 250 people are currently living on the streets and that the figure is growing – particularly in areas such as Huelin, El Palo, and around the city centre.

The primary causes of homelessness in Malaga are varied, but the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with the soaring cost of living, has played a part. 

Many of those living on the streets have lost their jobs or are unable to afford rising rents, according to the charity.

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“The profile of the homeless person has changed,” said Virginia Iglesias, head of the Red Cross’s homeless project in Malaga. 

“We’re seeing more younger people, often in their 30s and 40s, who have been unable to recover from the economic downturn.”

Iglesias pointed out the harsh reality of Malaga’s soaring rental market, where even a modest room is beyond reach for those earning €560 a month. 

As a result, many are forced to sleep in cars, vans, or even shacks.

By the end of July, the Red Cross had assisted 475 homeless individuals, with 80% of them lacking any form of shelter.

Despite an increase in the number of shelters and support services, the demand for housing assistance continues to outpace supply. 

The Red Cross is calling on the local authorities and the community to do more to address the growing crisis. 

They are urging people to challenge the stigma associated with homelessness and to treat those living on the streets with compassion and respect.

“Just saying good morning or asking if they need anything can make a difference,” Iglesias said. 

“We need to remove the stigma and recognize that these are people just like us, who often just need someone to listen or lend a hand.

“These are people who have found themselves in difficult circumstances,” said Iglesias. “They need our help, not our judgement.”