The “Schlupfwinkel” – Support for Street Children in Stuttgart
We continue our new tradition of the past few years and this year, we are supporting the youngest members of our society. Our donation goes to the “Schlupfwinkel” organization in Stuttgart, which does important and meaningful work for children and young people.
The “Schlupfwinkel” is an open drop-in and counseling center for children and young people living on the streets of Stuttgart. There, they can get a free breakfast, take a shower, and wash and dry their clothes. They can also meet people, use computers and the internet, and store personal belongings in lockers.
Youth from All Walks of Life
The young people are between 12 and 25 years old. They come from all social backgrounds and belong to various youth scenes. But they all have one thing in common: their stories of suffering usually begin with running away from home. Their current living situation has often become unbearable for them. Therefore, they seek help to change their circumstances.
Often, the young people fall into a vicious cycle. As a result, they lose contact with the relevant authorities.
Why Young People Run Away
What drives young people to leave home? The reasons are diverse and usually occur in combination. Often, the young people have already exhausted all their own options to improve their situation. In doing so, they become even more entangled in their problems. They experience stress with their parents, at school, and with authorities. Many lack education and jobs. Many have debts or trouble with the law. Everything that could provide them with support and security has become unbalanced.
Rebuilding Trusting Relationships
In many cases, there are no adults left whom the young people trust. But we all know from our own experience that stable relationships are based on mutual trust. Therefore, the “Schlupfwinkel” tries to rebuild this trust step by step.
When the young people have troubles or want to relieve stress, the staff at the “Schlupfwinkel” listen to them. Individual appointments are arranged if needed. All staff members are experienced team players. They have worked together for many years and are deeply committed to the children and young people with great empathy.
Help – without preasure
They also accompany the young people to important appointments – for example, with parents, authorities, at school, the police, or doctors. No one is pressured. Each individual is free to decide which support they want to accept. These young people face special challenges. They long for a normal life and, above all, a real perspective.
That is why we sincerely want to support the important and valuable work of the “Schlupfwinkel” organization this year.
