LEV Groep foundation in Geldrop-Mierlo, would like to see more projects for refugees taking place. (Lev Groep is a foundation which stands for living and connection and it takes care of connecting people in their living areas).
This statement comes from the foundation’s spokesperson, Marjolein Lucassen. There is a great need for additional Dutch language trainers for the refugees. Presently there are thirty trainers; however, it seems that more are required. The initial talks on this subject have already taken place with the supervisory board and ‘they seemed quite sympathetic’, says Ms. Lucassen. According to her, an agreement has already been reached about extra projects, but the financial aspects still need to be arranged.
The positive point regarding language lessons is that in addition to learning the language, cultural exchanges take place; thus, enabling both groups to learn more about each other.
Furthermore, Ms. Lucassen would like to start a bicycle project. Thereby, teaching the refugees not only how to ride a bicycle, but mainly how to repair and maintain bicycles. This will provide the refugees with the feeling of giving something back to the society they are now part of, she thinks.
Preferably, the location should be at the same place as the Food Bank and the Repair Café.
The number of statushouders (legal refugees) in Geldrop-Mierlo is growing. This year, the number has reached 100 legal refugees. In 2015 the number of legal refugees was 65 and in 2014 the number was 35 legal refugees.
Source: Studio040
Translation: Galit Diepens
