Airbnb Offers Free Temporary Housing to 100,000 Ukrainian Refugees

Photo source: Airbnb

Airbnb on Monday announced that Airbnb.org will offer free, short-term housing for up to 100,000 refugees fleeing Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.

Airbnb.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating temporary stays for people in times of crisis around the world.

According to a company announcement, Airbnb and Airbnb.org sent letters to leaders across Europe, starting with those of Poland, Germany, Hungary and Romania, offering support in welcoming refugees within their borders.

“While Airbnb.org is committing to facilitate short-term housing for up to 100,000 refugees fleeing Ukraine, it will work closely with governments to best support the specific needs in each country, including by providing longer-term stays,” the announcement said.

The stays of Ukrainian refugees will be funded by Airbnb, Inc., donors to the Airbnb.org Refugee Fund, and the generosity of hosts through Airbnb.org.

Photo source: SATD (State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine)

“We know that hosts and guests on Airbnb around the world will be eager to stand up and assist this massive effort to help those fleeing Ukraine,” Airbnb said in its announcement.

In the coming days, Airbnb and Airbnb.org will share additional details on how hosts and the broader community can support the initiative, including by offering free or discounted stays.

Over the past five years, Airbnb and Airbnb.org have connected more than 54,000 refugees and asylees – including from Syria, Venezuela and Afghanistan – to temporary housing through Airbnb.org partners. Last year, Airbnb.org announced the creation of its Refugee Fund and has galvanized more than 4,000 donors to further support its work with refugees and asylum seekers worldwide.