Housing benefits in Limbaži have increased by 23% this year as more households apply for assistance due to rising utility expenses from the cold winter.
In Limbaži, Latvia, data from the local Social Services show a significant increase in housing benefits disbursed in the first two months of this year, amounting to a 23% rise compared to the same period last year. This increase is attributed to the extremely cold winter weather, which has caused household utility costs to surge, prompting residents to seek assistance from the Social Services. In January alone, a total of 305 households received a total of €36,168, which represents a 12.5% increase over the same month last year, where benefits were given to 350 households for a total of €32,125.
Comparing February's statistics from 2025 and 2026, the rise is even more pronounced, with a 31.5% increase this year compared to last year. In February 2025, 314 households received benefits amounting to €39,294, while this month, 382 households received €51,684. The local government has highlighted the increased housing benefits and the expanded eligibility criteria, which are set to continue until April 30 of this year, as part of their efforts to support residents facing financial hardships during the harsh winter.
Social workers have also recalculated benefits for 61 households in January and February, ensuring that the assistance is adjusted according to current needs. This response from the local authorities underscores the impact of climatic challenges on community welfare and the proactive measures being taken to alleviate the burden on residents affected by rising living expenses in the wake of extreme weather conditions.
