Shelter Homes

Shelter homes are temporary housing facilities that provide emergency accommodation to individuals in need. These facilities can be run by government-aided hostels or private individuals. 

Most people who are homeless or vulnerable and in an emergency situation can approach shelter homes. The primary objective of shelter homes is to provide a safe and secure environment to individuals who do not have access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare.

Shelter Homes and the Government

It is the responsibility of the government to provide shelter homes to protect the neglected and homeless members of society. The Juvenile Justice Act empowers the state government to recognise organisations and assist them in setting up and running shelter homes for innocent children, women, and other marginalised people who need protection. 

Shelter homes are essential for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities, among others.

Night Shelters for Homeless Individuals

Shelter homes also serve as night shelters for people who urgently require support. These shelters provide temporary accommodation for homeless individuals during the night. 

Night shelters are essential, especially during the winter season when the weather is harsh, and homeless individuals are more vulnerable to illness and death. The availability of night shelters can mean the difference between life and death for many homeless individuals.

The Role of Shelter Homes in Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Shelter homes play a crucial role in providing protection, services, and resources to individuals who have experienced abuse or violence. These safe havens serve as a temporary refuge for survivors, where they can recover from the trauma and rebuild their self-esteem. Furthermore, shelter homes promote awareness and understanding of gender-based violence and human rights violations.

Assisting Survivors of Violence

Shelter homes provide assistance to women who leave situations of violence, helping them navigate the complex legal and social service systems. Survivors of violence often face significant barriers when trying to access critical support and protection, including police, judicial, and social services. These homes provide a bridge between survivors and these institutions, enabling them to access the help they need.

Educating Professionals

Shelter homes also have an important role to play in educating health and judicial providers, social service personnel, and security professionals on how to recognise and address violence against women. By increasing awareness and knowledge about gender-based violence, shelter homes can help prevent future occurrences and ensure that survivors receive appropriate support.

The Role of Shelter Homes during the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected millions of people around the world, including homeless individuals. Homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to the virus, as they lack access to basic hygiene facilities and healthcare. 

During the pandemic, shelter homes played a critical role in providing emergency accommodation and healthcare to homeless individuals. 

In India, Google added a feature to its search bar and maps during the lockdown to list night shelters and food shelters in many contaminated-affected cities. These arrangements were developed with the assistance of the government, and the search results show the list of shelters run by the government that can be accessed on Google Maps and Google Assistant.

Legal Framework around Shelter Homes

The Domestic Violence Act mentions the duties of shelter homes. Under section 6 of the act, if an aggrieved person or protection officer requests the person in charge of a shelter home to provide shelter to the aggrieved person, then the person in charge of the shelter home must provide the same. This provision is essential, especially for women who are victims of domestic violence and require emergency shelter.

The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2000, mentions shelter homes. Section 37 of the act requires state governments to recognise reputed or capable voluntary organisations and provide them with assistance to set up as many shelter homes for juveniles as required. These homes must also have prescribed facilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, homelessness is a critical issue that affects millions of people around the world. Shelter homes are essential facilities that provide emergency accommodation and healthcare to vulnerable groups, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities, among others. 

The government must provide shelter homes to protect neglected and homeless members of society. The legal framework around shelter homes ensures that individuals have access to emergency shelters when required.