Highlight number 1 of the 75 good deeds:
The Gießener Tafel is currently distributing food to more than 1600 people in need. A task in which Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG) is supporting the organisation of the Diakonisches Werk with a donation of 2,500 euros. SWG also provided the meals for the food bank last Monday.
In 2005, the Gießener Tafel opened a food distribution centre in Leimenkauter Weg. At the time, around 200 people took advantage of the facility's two distribution days. In the meantime, these numbers have multiplied. Holger Claes, head of the Gießener Tafel, has been observing the development for several years and knows the reasons: "Unfortunately, fewer and fewer unemployed people, pensioners and low-income earners have enough money for their daily bread. For many of those who come to us every day, eating enough and healthy food is already a luxury." In addition to the location in Leimenkauter Weg, the Diakonisches Werk has now set up a distribution centre in four surrounding communities. Around 1,700 people use this service - including around 400 children.
"Without our almost 300 volunteers and numerous donations of food, goods and money, it would not be possible to help the many families and cover our running costs. That's why we appreciate every commitment and every bit of support, as we have received from Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG) for many years - once again," emphasises Holger Claes.
SWG donated 2500 euros to the Gießener Tafel on Monday, 25 March. The cheque was presented by Ina Weller, company spokesperson for SWG. She explained: "When we were looking for suggestions for the 75 good deeds with which SWG is supporting social projects and organisations throughout the region this year, Rüdiger Hahn from the Customer Services department thought of the Gießener Tafel. The Head of Receivables Management has already delivered food to Leimenkauter Weg himself and knew that the money was needed here to pay for rent and inventory as well as vehicle maintenance, for example. Unfortunately, he can't be here in person today, which is why I'm standing in for him. And I'm really happy to do that in this case."
A hot lunch for everyone
Last Monday, Ina Weller not only handed over the cheque to Holger Claes, but also lent a hand with the serving of lunch. SWG donated a hot meal for all the families who regularly collect their food on Mondays and for all the volunteers at the Gießen food bank. A local catering company took care of the delivery on behalf of Stadtwerke.
"Sitting down to a well-laid table every evening or going out to a restaurant with the family every now and then - unfortunately, everyday life is different for many people. This results in frustration and resignation for some of those affected," explained Tafel manager Holger Claes last Monday, adding: "Sharing a meal with others and a bit of variety gives them a new perspective. Stadtwerke also helped us today with this task of motivating all families in need."