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The Franzfreunde, as part of the Franziskanische Sozialwerke Düsseldorf gGmbH, are an established social enterprise that has been supporting people in special life situations since 1857. Inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi and Brother Johannes Höver, they combine Christian charity with the highest professional competence. Their Franziskanisches Prinzip forms the basis: Every person is seen as an image of God - regardless of age, origin or fate. They treat people in need with dignity, respect and tolerance, promote resources, self-help and participation.[1][2][4]
Homeless assistance is at the heart of the commitment. The Franzfreunde offer for men, women, diverse people and couples - all year round and with low barriers to entry, including winter emergency aid. Places like the Franziska-Schervier-Haus and the integrated emergency shelter on Graf-Adolf-Straße alleviate immediate need, provide further assistance and strengthen the path back to a self-determined life through resource-oriented advice. This is complemented by , employment assistance and projects such as "Die Feger", where long-term unemployed and homeless people receive mini-jobs for waste collection in order to promote self-confidence and integration.[3][5][6]
In the Sozialkaufhaus and related offers, homeless people find work and perspectives. Used furniture, electrical appliances and household goods are refurbished, upcycled (e.g. in the MöbelUp project) or sold here. Services include household clearances, junk removal, donation collections and gardening work. For 20 years, these initiatives have given courage and structure - as with Gerhard Bös, who rose to become a salesman and instructor after private crises.[3]
Senior citizen assistance rounds off the portfolio. Two care facilities on Rather Broich offer 265 care places (from care level 2) for seniors and formerly homeless elderly people. The Villa as an innovative concept since the turn of the millennium emphasizes individual needs, activation and community. Residents are the focus: care promotes quality of life, satisfaction and participation. Regular top marks from the Medizinischer Diensts der Krankenkassen (MDK) confirm the first-class quality. Cooperations with relatives and volunteers create close networks.[1][4][8]
The main mission of the Franzfreunde is: "To practice works of mercy." They help the homeless, seniors and marginalized people with heart, professionalism and transparency. Values such as non-profit status, economic efficiency and diversity in the service community shape everyday life. Everyone is accepted in their uniqueness - without schemata, but from the perspective of the person. This creates new life perspectives and enables community.[1][2][4]
Sustainability is reflected in resource-saving practices such as upcycling in the Sozialkaufhaus, which avoids waste and closes cycles. Projects such as "Die Feger" contribute to a clean city and integrate vulnerable people. The Franzfreunde are committed to the common good, work transparently and have been active in Düsseldorf for decades - from alleviating hardship to providing qualifications. They are actively looking for new employees and volunteers to expand their commitment.[1][3][6]
The Franzfreunde embody living help: Where there is need, perspective arises. With over 160 years of tradition, they remain a rock in the surf for Düsseldorf.[1][2]
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