The Power of Collaboration in Housing – Inspired by Y-Säätiö, Affordable Housing Emerges in Sweden 28.4.2025News In 2016, Stockholm City Mission, an organization working on homelessness in Sweden, visited Y-Säätiö for the first time. The visit gave inspiration to their thougths and idea of forming a social sustainable housing solutions. After years of dedicated effort, the organization completed its first affordable rental building, which was finalized in 2024. Y-Säätiö’s international collaboration enables the sharing of effective solutions and the development of locally adapted models in different countries. A good example of this is the establishment of the Nordic Homelessness Alliance by Y-Säätiö in 2023. The network brings together homelessness organizations across the Nordic region, aiming to deepen regional cooperation and promote proven best practices. Nordic Collaboration Has Power Stockholm City Mission’s new rental building sets an example for other Swedish actors and demonstrates that increasing the supply of affordable housing is achievable. Y-Säätiö’s operating model has provided valuable inspiration and concrete tools for making the project a reality. This collaboration shows how international knowledge exchange can lead to meaningful change. “Y-Säätiö’s example has been truly significant—without it, the building probably wouldn’t exist. We got inspired during our 2016 visit, and eight years later, our building is ready, offering affordable homes for nearly 100 residents”, says Pernilla Parding, Head of Housing at Stockholm City Mission. Juha Kahila, Head of International Affairs at Y-Säätiö, emphasizes the broader significance of the project: “The building developed by Stockholm City Mission is both a symbolic and concrete demonstration of the power of international cooperation. Nearly 100 people now have a safe, affordable home, and at Y-Säätiö, we’re proud to have served as an inspiration and example.” A New Start for Nearly One Hundred Residents For many of the building’s residents, moving into their new home has marked a major life change. Many have previously faced homelessness or insecure living situations. Now, they have a stable and safe place to live, making it possible to lead an independent life and build a better future. “This building is more than just a house—it’s a symbol of how collaboration and innovative solutions can bring lasting improvements to people’s lives. It offers a new kind of solution for Sweden’s housing market and serves as inspiration for others seeking sustainable ways to reduce homelessness”, says Parding. The completion of the building has attracted wider interest in Sweden, and Stockholm City Mission hopes that similar projects will emerge in the future. They emphasize that without the support and example of Y-Säätiö, this project would not have been realized. Impactful results can be achieved when proven solutions are shared across borders and local actors are supported in adapting them to their own contexts.