A father struggles with rising costs: "I can't even pay the rent"
Yamil, a 50-year-old father from Vienna, struggles to support his family of seven as the sole provider. Rising rents, energy bills, and grocery costs have made even basic living expenses nearly impossible.
The rent for his small apartment has already increased three times, from 450 euros to 650, and now to 900 euros. The family can no longer shop at regular stores and instead relies on the social market for groceries. Clothes have also become a luxury they cannot afford, leaving Yamil wearing a torn winter jacket that barely protects him from the cold.
This year's Christmas did not bring any comfort without the help of charity. The 'Santa's Toy' campaign distributed 300 gift bags in the social market of the Samaritans Association, including one for the Yamile family with five children. Without it, there would have been no gifts at all.
Yamil's wife is currently unemployed and takes care of the children at home. She does not receive any social assistance and relies entirely on his income of about 1800 euros, plus child benefits, to cover the family's expenses. Every month is a struggle to meet basic needs.
Looking ahead to 2026, Yamil fears another increase in fees and costs, including the annual public transport pass in Vienna, while salaries remain stagnant. This situation leaves him worried about how he will be able to support his family next year.