[custom_adv] Windproof and waterproof sleep pods have been installed in the streets of a German city in order to house the homeless. The wood and steel cabins, which can fit up to two people, protect against the cold, wind, and humidity. They also guarantee fresh air circulation. [custom_adv] The pods were introduced to the city of Ulm, 75 miles west of Munich, on 8 January in parks and at other places where homeless people sleep, a city spokesman said. The capsules are also equipped with solar panels, and are connected to a radio network, allowing occupants to communicate without dependency of mobile networks. [custom_adv] The creators of the “Ulmer Nest” have stated that it is made with those who cannot access usual homeless shelters in mind, either due to psychological factors or because they have a pet, for example. [custom_adv] Evaluations are currently taking place to understand if the Ulmer Nest is suitable to protect against frostbite. If it is, it could be adapted for a nationwide rollout. The team behind the pod states that this is not an alternative to a stay in a more traditional hostel or housing facility, but an alternative to sleeping in the outdoors. They describe it as an “emergency last resort” option. [custom_adv] In addition, the capsules now come equipped with solar panels and are connected to a radio network that allows their occupants to communicate without depending on mobile networks. The closing and locking mechanism has been improved and allows better ease of use. [custom_adv] The Caritas Ulm-Alb-Donau charity association, or members of Ulmer Nest, are then notified that someone has stayed in the pod for the night. The following day, the cabin is visited by one of the organisations to ensure the cabin is empty and to invite the user to go to engage with the city's homelessness service.
