Problem addressed

The project addresses the growing problem of the lack of affordable housing for people at risk of social and housing exclusion, such as those experiencing homelessness, leaving foster care, living with disabilities, or working in low-income jobs. Despite a sufficient number of housing units on the market, people with limited income have little realistic chance of securing a rental. The project offers an intermediary solution by renting apartments from private owners, providing rent subsidies and additional social and vocational support services, effectively removing the mentioned financial, social, and organizational barriers. 

Innovative solution

The project introduces an innovative model of the Social Rental Agency (SRA), which integrates the private rental market with social and vocational services into a single coordinated system. A key innovation lies in the collaboration with private landlords while providing rent subsidies and integration support to tenants, enabling access to housing for people excluded from the traditional rental market. As a part of the project, private-market apartments are renovated and furnished, and made available to those in greatest need. In addition to housing, tenants receive support in areas such as job search, accessing benefits, and managing debt. Additionally, the target groups is also able to receive a rent subsidy for maximum one year.  

Key results and benefits

The project will expand the housing stock of the Social Rental Agency in Dąbrowa Górnicza to at least 60 units, including 30 apartments from the private market acquired under the ESF+ project. At least 100 people in difficult housing situation will gain access to safe rental housing along with comprehensive social and vocational support, including rent subsidies and integration services. As a result, the project not only offers a roof over their heads but also a real opportunity for independence and a dignified life. 

Importantly, the SRA financing and operational model will be fully documented and made publicly available so that other cities could easily implement similar solution. This is more than a local intervention – it is a proposal for a new, systemic approach to housing policy in Poland.

Potential for mainstreaming

The project has strong potential for mainstreaming, as it is based on a flexible model of cooperation between local governments and social organizations, and the private rental market. The financing model for the Social Rental Agency developed through the project will be publicly available and replicable without the need for ongoing external funding.