At home, your home
The social cohesion service of the city of Versoix contributes to strengthening the social fabric and improving the quality of life of its residents. Committed to an inclusive approach, this service implements various initiatives aimed at promoting integration, mutual aid, and solidarity within the community.
Whether through intergenerational projects, cultural activities, or support programs for vulnerable individuals, the social cohesion service strives to create an environment where everyone can find their place and flourish. Its mission is to foster collective well-being and strengthen social bonds to build a harmonious and dynamic city.
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1. Facing the issue
For several years, the social cohesion service of Versoix has been facing an increasing demand for housing assistance, both for professional integration and individual social aid. A key mission of this service is to support people in distress towards autonomy and a stable situation, despite the challenges posed by the housing crisis and the lack of solutions in the region. The shortage of temporary housing makes it difficult to adequately support homeless individuals, impacting their professional integration, education, and psychological well-being.
The housing options provided by the canton are insufficient, with thousands of applications pending for years. This situation severely affects people of all ages, including seniors and young adults, who face precarious living conditions and difficulties in integration.
To address these needs, the service has established the Pass’N Clic initiative, a permanent support system bringing together various professionals to raise awareness and help vulnerable young people access their rights. However, there is a lack of temporary housing solutions for these young individuals in need. With the closure of existing shelters, the situation has become even more critical.
2. At home, your home – A Pilot Project of the Social Cohesion Service
This two-year pilot project, in partnership with the Jean Dutoit and Samuel May Foundations, aims to provide two temporary apartments in Versoix: a studio for a young person engaged in a professional integration or training project, and a three-room apartment for families, singles, or seniors. These apartments will be available to adults with residence permits, who have the financial means to cover expenses, are homeless or living in precarious conditions, and are supported by the social cohesion service of Versoix.
Leases will be established between the city of Versoix and the agencies representing the housing foundations. An accommodation contract will be signed between the City of Versoix and the beneficiary, with a maximum duration of 9 months, extendable by 3 months in exceptional cases, to keep beneficiaries competitive with the housing office.
Beneficiaries will pay rent and charges monthly to the municipality and will sign a social support agreement, committing to actively participate in improving their situation.
The apartments will be furnished to emphasize their transitional nature and avoid additional financial burdens. The allocation of housing will be decided after the social team in Versoix analyzes the situations.
Expected results include stabilizing precarious situations, activating social rights, and improving the social and economic conditions of beneficiaries. Interim reports and a final evaluation will allow for adjusting the objectives and verifying the success of the project.
