Intergenerational housing in Prague is on the rise. Various city districts are launching projects that promote the cohabitation of students and seniors, offering students affordable housing in exchange for volunteer work. Following in the footsteps of Praha 1 and Praha 5, Praha 7 is now joining this initiative.
The concept of students living with seniors was introduced in districts such as Praha 3 and Praha 6 several years ago. This March, Praha 1 joined the program, and Praha 5 followed in April. In each case, local councils have offered young individuals accommodation in units that are part of care homes but not suitable for seniors. In return, students provide companionship and learn valuable life lessons from the elderly.
Praha 7 is now offering similar opportunities. According to information on their website, students from universities or vocational schools can rent apartments in special housing units on Kamenická or U Studánky streets. The rental agreement requires students to perform 30 hours of volunteer work with seniors each month.
These special housing units owned by Praha 7 are intended for seniors and people with disabilities who do not require round-the-clock care but still need assistance with daily activities due to age or health issues. “We don’t want any apartment to stay empty,” said Jan Čižinský, mayor of Praha 7. “By offering these apartments to student volunteers for short-term rentals, we can improve services for seniors and enhance the atmosphere in these buildings.”
The apartments range from 25 to 40 square meters, with rent prices around 203.67 CZK per square meter, amounting to about 5,000 to 8,000 CZK monthly. Rental agreements with volunteers will be signed for one year with the possibility of renewal, but only as long as the student is enrolled in their studies.
Applicants must submit their application by August 31, including a description of activities they can offer to the house residents, a motivational letter, and proof of enrollment. Before signing the rental agreement, students must provide a clean criminal record and a proposed schedule for their volunteer activities.