Open Arms welcomes residents in Alexanderpolder with open arms. Thus, this initiative gives concrete substance to the biblical command to look after one's fellow man. "We love because God first loved us" (1 John 4:19).
Open Arms welcomes residents of Rotterdam’s Alexanderpolder with open arms. With nearly a hundred volunteers, this initiative puts the biblical command to care for one’s neighbour into practice. “We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
Open Arms aims to be a safe space where people can catch their breath, share their stories, find new inspiration and, above all, feel at home. Through our community consultation service, we receive around six hundred requests for help every year. These are local residents who are struggling financially, who find it difficult to participate in society because, for example, they do not speak the language, or who have lost their daily activities. Loneliness is a major problem in the neighbourhood.
In these community spaces, people feel heard and seen. At the charity shop, people can buy good-quality clothing and other items at low prices. The Palet community centre also serves as a distribution point for the Food Bank. Around 175 people visit here every week. For many people, this practical support makes it easier to pop in.
Every week, more than four hundred people find their way to the community centre. Many of the visitors take part in the activities, enjoy socialising with others and feel at home.
In order to continue providing this support, your financial support is essential.
More information about Open Arms can be found on the website openarms.co.uk
