VinziWerke seek volunteers as winter demand rises

The VinziWerke are urgently seeking volunteers as falling temperatures increase demand for their services, ORF reported. The organisation needs help to keep its facilities running, particularly during the upcoming holidays.

Its facilities provide shelter for people who are homeless or without stable housing. Last winter, accommodation facilities were about 90 per cent full on average, while the VinziTel emergency shelter was at times over capacity. Additional emergency beds will be available in the coming winter months if needed.

Volunteers at emergency shelters and long-term accommodation facilities help welcome residents, serve as points of contact and hand out hygiene products and bedding. At the VinziMarkt food market, they help collect donated food, sort and stock goods, and serve customers.

VinziWerke Austria managing director Nicola Baloch encouraged people to try volunteering, saying they give their time and also get a lot in return. No prior experience is required. Volunteers receive training and complete trial shifts before working independently. Some roles at shelters and accommodation facilities may involve nights or weekends.