Day 10

Four diapers for a child in Germany

“Not having money is stupid!”

Child poverty in Germany

Behind the doors of children's rooms in Germany, things sometimes look depressing. There are only mattresses where children's beds should be, and no toys. Children are the first to feel it when the family adventure leads to difficulties or deep valleys due to separation, illness, moving and much more.

need

Care for poor children in Germany

activity

The local professional speaks to the family in need about the children's needs and gives the family vouchers to purchase the products described in the application.

Measurable performance

Number of children who were supported through the project

Result

Measurable reduction in financial hardship for families in need

Systemically relevant impact

Increasing the children's self-esteem through appropriate equipment and opportunities for social participation; overall stabilization of the family situation so that the family develops new perspectives that make it independent of external help.

background

The German Children's Fund (01/01/2014) states that 2.8 million children and young people in Germany are currently affected by poverty. In the fourth report on poverty and wealth by the Federal Government (March 2013), the situation is described very aptly as follows: "The special circumstances of families with children, such as the lack of or insufficient participation of parents in the workforce due to a lack of childcare options for small children and school-age children, or crises such as separation and divorce, often lead families to a relatively low income. When various factors come together, the risk of poverty in different life situations can reinforce each other and it becomes more difficult to overcome the situation. Single parents and their children, as well as families with a migrant background, are more likely to be affected by the risk of poverty than average." But not only money, but also knowledge is needed. The German welfare state offers many types of support. But more and more often those affected cannot find their way in the bureaucratized system. Many parents, especially when they find themselves in crisis situations, lack the strength and energy to get help from outside.

The good deed

Through unbureaucratic, individual and efficient help, children from families in acute need are temporarily supported for a year through professionally supervised financial sponsorships. The money from the sponsors is not simply transferred to the family's account. Instead, consultations are held to determine what the children most urgently need and what further help - education, language courses, childcare - could look like. The lasting positive effect of Wellcome sponsorships for families in need is based on the success triangle of material help, advice and networking. Families can regain courage through the unexpected support and feel seen and strengthened. The diapers symbolize the families' investments in material things that they need for their offspring.