Caritas Warning of Increasing Poverty in Austria

"Many do not know how they will afford their next purchase," said Caritas Vienna Director Klaus Schwertner on Tuesday at a press conference at a Le+O distribution point in Vienna-Favoriten. According to Schwertner, the pressure on those affected by poverty has increased significantly due to the rising cost of living. Children suffer from malnutrition because families cannot afford a balanced diet. Schwertner warns that austerity measures by the federal and state governments could exacerbate the situation and significantly increase poverty in Austria.

Caritas Warns of Social Isolation Due to Poverty

According to a survey by Statistics Austria, one-tenth of the population has difficulty covering ongoing expenses. Households with low incomes, the unemployed, and single parents are disproportionately affected, said Foresight Managing Director Christoph Hofinger. One of the consequences is increased social isolation. In a Caritas survey, about one-third of respondents agreed with the statement that they had to limit their social contacts due to rising costs, very much (eight percent) or quite a bit (25 percent). Compared to 2023, these proportions have doubled.

In the 15 food distribution points of Caritas in Vienna and Lower Austria, demand has recently increased significantly, reports Schwertner. While 8,282 people were served in 2023, today there are more than 10,400 - an increase of 26 percent, with further growth feared. Caritas is therefore expanding its assistance and launching a new hotline for quicker access to food distribution.

Caritas Criticism of Austerity Measures by Federal and State Governments

Schwertner criticizes the measures for budget consolidation in the federal and state governments "on the backs of the poorest." Specifically, he mentioned the abolition of the climate bonus, the expiration of the electricity price brake, the suspension of the valorization of family benefits, the extensive elimination of additional earning opportunities for the unemployed, as well as rising fees and prices. This mass of deteriorations for those affected by poverty is "simply madness," said Schwertner, who fears further deteriorations and an increase in child poverty due to the planned reform of social assistance. Minimum standards are needed, not maximum limits on minimum security, and no competition among federal states to lower standards, as is currently happening, said the Caritas Vienna Director.

Hotline for registration and available appointments at distribution points for people affected by poverty in Vienna: 05/17 76 300, Donation account: Caritas - IBAN: AT23 2011 1000 0123 4560 - Non-perishable food such as rice, oil, coffee, canned goods, sugar, or salt is also needed.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.