Lots of people in need, high food prices and the war is still raging in Ukraine: According to them, the rush in front of the Berlin Arche in Hellersdorf poses enormous challenges for the social institution. “Our food issue has increased tenfold, maybe even more,” said Chairman Bernd Siggelkow on Thursday at the food issue in Hellersdorf.
Before the war began, the facility spent around 1,000 euros a week on groceries. In the meantime it is even up to 3000 euros a day. “At the moment we also have a lot of Ukrainian families who come to us,” emphasized Siggelkow. In general, according to his words: “The war has made a big rift in society.”
In particular, the number of needy children has risen drastically. Siggelkow warned of possible consequences. “We also have more children in general. We will experience that we will also have children who end up in the hospital with symptoms of hunger.”
The first people in need of help are often in front of the aid facility hours before the actual issue. A Ukrainian woman waited in line with her son for an hour. “Today is my first time here. I heard about the Arche from a neighbor in the dormitory,” reported the 36-year-old. “Social assistance is not always enough,” she continued. Another woman, who comes from Zaporizhia, has also been able to get hold of a large bag for her two children on several occasions. “My children were most happy about a glass of Nutella,” said the 40-year-old.
Die Arche is a Christian social and youth organization that was founded in Berlin in 1995. According to its own statements, the facility is now active at 28 locations in Germany. (dpa)
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