People experiencing homelessness can go there for, amongst other things, shelter from the rain and cold, toilet facilities, a laundry room and a simple breakfast. Support is also provided by professionals, such as a street doctor and other support workers.
Support and quality of life
Through the drop-in centre, the council aims both to offer support to a vulnerable group of residents and to contribute to a pleasant and liveable city centre. Councillor Myrthe Kuiper explains: “With this drop-in centre, we are offering homeless people a place where they can go during the day to warm up, have a cup of coffee or get help. In this way, we want to help them and contribute to a pleasant city centre for everyone.”
Good governance and oversight
The location on Stationsstraat is easily accessible for visitors and support workers. The Salvation Army is responsible for day-to-day management and supervises the building and its surroundings. The drop-in centre will soon be open every day. Outside opening hours, the premises will be secured with a gate. A maximum of 20 to 25 people can use the facility at any one time.
In discussion with local residents
The council considers it important to inform local residents and other stakeholders at an early stage and to engage with them. An information meeting will be held on 2 December for local residents to find out more about the plans and ask questions.
