The Riga City Council's Welfare Department has reported a surge in calls from residents asking about housing subsidies due to the escalating heating bills this winter. Antra Gabre, a representative from the city's external communications department, noted that their call center, which employs five staff members, receives an average of 80 calls a day, with about ten of those specifically regarding the housing subsidy. This reflects a growing concern among the populace regarding how they can assess their eligibility for these benefits and the steps required to apply for them.

With the onset of a harsher winter, many residents have found themselves faced with heating expenses that are significantly higher than what they anticipated based on previous milder winters. Gabre emphasized that while residents are eager to receive assistance for these unexpected costs, the process of determining subsidy eligibility is not straightforward. Residents are guided to contact the Social Service for accurate assessments rather than relying solely on the call center, which cannot perform calculations regarding subsidy entitlement.

The rising interest in housing subsidies illustrates the economic strain on households in Riga amidst the harsh winter conditions, prompting the local government to prepare and respond to the heightened demand for assistance. As more residents express their need for help, it underscores the importance of having clear communication pathways and effective support systems in place to ensure that those who qualify can access the necessary aid promptly.