The implementation of a program for free housing for young people facing financial difficulties is actively progressing. This initiative, known as "Κάλυψη," aims to provide socially vulnerable youth with the opportunity of free residence in private houses and apartments, with the rental costs covered by the government.
"Κάλυψη" is a part of Greece's state housing policy and is established by Law 5006/2022, "My Home - Housing Policy for Youth, Use of State Property for Social Housing, and Other Provisions." The program is available for young individuals aged 25 to 39, including those receiving minimal guaranteed income and lacking their own housing.
The program utilizes existing private homes that were previously used to accommodate asylum-seeking foreigners under the concluded "ESTIA" program. The government covers the rental payments for a duration of three years.
Additionally, the program covers expenses related to the relocation and transportation of belongings for young families. Sofia Zacharaki, the Minister of Social Policy and Family, emphasizes that "Κάλυψη" complements government efforts in addressing housing issues, offering young people the opportunity of free housing for three years.
Interest in the program is high. Currently, 46 municipalities across the country have shown a positive response. Contracts have already been signed with the municipalities of Thessaloniki and the central sector of Attica, with contracts for the southern and western sectors of Attica expected shortly.
The process of involving landlords in the program is fairly straightforward. Owners of homes previously involved in the "ΕSTIA" programs ("ΕSTIA II" and "ΕSTIA 2021") can also join the "Κάλυψη" program. The application process involves confirming that the property meets established standards and is ready for use.
Municipal authorities have the right to conduct inspections prior to renting out the housing. Applications from young people, along with the necessary documents, are evaluated based on specific criteria set by the ministries.
Applicants are categorized based on criteria such as large families, individuals with disabilities, single mothers, and others. The municipality offers houses to households in order of priority according to their ranking, and households can choose suitable housing from the available list.
Each household has the option to select one of the three proposed properties. If a household declines all three options, they are automatically placed at the end of the queue.