Founded on the belief that secure housing is a prerequisite for a dignified life, the From Streets to Homes Association (FStHA) develops and operates programmes that provide independent housing for people affected by homelessness or housing insecurity. Rental prices relative to salaries are the highest in Budapest compared to other EU capitals, making the housing crisis a significant issue for many.
FStHA’s initiatives target the most vulnerable groups. Through the From Huts to Homes! programme, they support homeless individuals who previously lived in makeshift huts without electricity or running water, helping them transition to comfortable homes where they can finally achieve stability. FStHA works with a great number of volunteers who help in the renovation process. They also offer rent subsidies to refugees forced to flee Ukraine due to the ongoing war. Additionally, FStHA runs a social housing agency that collaborates with private homeowners to rent out properties at reduced prices to individuals struggling to afford market rates.
Throughout and after the move-in process, FStHA provides intensive support to all target groups to help them maintain their homes. The team includes professional social workers, who also organise community-based social work programmes. A key aspect of these programmes is the active involvement of beneficiaries—former homeless individuals and those experiencing housing poverty, including refugees. This participatory approach allows for a deeper understanding of beneficiaries’ circumstances and the development of tailored, effective solutions.
One such community support initiative is a peer mentoring programme, where long-term beneficiaries are employed as paid mentors to assist newer clients in various aspects of their lives. The peer mentoring programme offers multiple benefits:
Empathy through experience: Peer mentors have first-hand knowledge of the challenges their mentees face, having navigated similar situations themselves. This enables them to provide essential and relatable support.
Building trust and connection: The partnership between mentor and mentee fosters trust and helps combat social isolation.
Personal growth for mentors: Mentors gain valuable personal and professional development through their roles. The programme supports them with regular meetings and supervision, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss cases and challenges.
Enhanced organisational efficiency: Peer support reduces the workload of social workers, allowing the organisation to operate more effectively.
The peer mentoring programme was started in 2022 October. The programme currently works with seven mentors, supporting a total of 14 families. Each mentor typically supports two families, though their capacity varies due to factors like having a full-time job or physical limitations. Clients most in need are identified by the social work team and matched with mentors who have availability.
Mentors provide tailored support based on mentees' needs, with engagements lasting from six months to several years. They maintain weekly contact, either in person or by phone, with some periods requiring more frequent interactions.
Due to the withdrawal of one of their supporters, FStHA only received partial funding to continue the programme. Funding from the Foundation will cover part of the shortfall for one year. During this time, FStHA will focus on securing the remaining funds and developing a long-term sustainability plan for the programme. For the development of the sustainability plan, the Foundation will provide on-going professional support as needed.
