Introduction: Although homelessness is a worldwide problem also present in Poland and the Małopolska region, the data about it are not sufficient.
Aim of the study: Assessment of the general situation in Cracow and help options for homeless people.
Materials and methods: A survey study conducted in 11 places offering refuge to homeless people in Cracow.
Results: In Cracow, there were 691 places to sleep in 11 institutions. Nine out of 11 were open all year long and most of them were available only for men. Five institutions offered meals, all of them had bathrooms, 7 places provided medical help.
Discussion: The expected number of homeless people in Poland and in Cracow seems to be underestimated. Basic needs of homeless people remain unsatisfied which decreases the possibility of transitioning out of homelessness.
Conclusions: Help available for homeless people in Cracow needs improvements in all of the areas examined.
Keywords: homeless people; hygiene; medical help; social help.