Groningen Municipality Encourages Residents to Share Spare Rooms with Young Adults in Need
Lend a room, lend a hand: offering space and support to help youth start independent lives.
Do you have extra space at home and a willingness to make a difference? The Groningen municipality is calling on residents to offer their spare rooms to young people in need of stable housing through the “Kamers met Aandacht” initiative. This program connects young adults, often transitioning from youth care or difficult family situations, with hosts who can offer a safe space and informal support.
Living independently for the first time can come with challenges – from figuring out daily routines to simple tasks like cooking without burning the potatoes. While many young people rely on family for support, not everyone has this option. By lending a room, Groningen residents can provide young adults with both housing and guidance in these early stages of independence. The initiative fosters a non-caretaker role, where the host simply becomes part of the young person’s “unofficial network” – someone to call when they need everyday advice or a shared meal.
The arrangement is flexible and accessible. Hosts don’t need to own their home; renting out a room is allowed even in rented accommodations, with support from local housing corporations. Rooms must be at least 12 m², and the maximum monthly rent is capped at €450. Kamers met Aandacht hosts monthly online meetings for those interested, providing a space for questions and additional information.
For many hosts and young tenants, this arrangement goes beyond accommodation. It fosters meaningful connections, combats loneliness, and creates a unique support network. Ready to make a difference? Sign up and learn more at www.kamersmetaandacht.nl.