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HLW Leben & Wohnen is a non-profit organization based in Hamburg that has been operating under a new name and with a fresh corporate structure since January 1, 2026. Despite the change, the proven quality, core values, and commitment remain unchanged. The company supports people with disabilities in Hamburg and Ostholstein in leading a self-determined, responsible life.[1][2][3]
HLW Leben & Wohnen offers a wide range of housing and assistance services tailored to individual needs. In Hamburg, these include modern, barrier-free residential buildings such as the Wohnhaus Schmarjestraße in Altona. This new four-story building offers space for 24 residents in a special form of housing, complemented by two outpatient shared apartments (AWG) on the top floor. Each unit has a single room with its own shower room, kitchenette facilities, shared kitchen-living rooms, common rooms, and a sunny roof terrace. Qualified staff is available around the clock for assistance – active during the day, on call at night.[4]
Other services include assistance in one's own living space, which makes it possible to be supported individually and flexibly. In Ostholstein, HLW operates facilities such as the Karl-SchĂĽtze-Heim in Merkendorf and offers in Neustadt in Holstein. These consist of five detached residential buildings on park-like grounds, which are used by four or more residents and create a familiar, natural environment.[6][7][5]
All offers follow the principle of person-centeredness: They are measured by whether they optimally meet the specific support needs of those affected. Residents are supported in the development of personal interests, life planning and the maintenance of relationships with relatives. The location in green surroundings, such as on the banks of the Elbe or in parks, promotes activities such as walks and independent living.[3][4]
The main mission of HLW Leben & Wohnen is to secure people with disabilities their right to a life designed according to their own wishes. The company is strongly committed to self-determination and personal responsibility. The wishes, goals and skills of those affected are taken seriously, further developed and implemented.[3]
Central quality promises include:
These values run through all services and create an environment in which residents can maintain their privacy and live out personal freedoms.
Although explicit sustainability goals are not described in detail in the current information, a sustainable approach is reflected in the barrier-free, modern construction (e.g. new building SchmarjestraĂźe) and the integration of natural locations. The park-like grounds in Merkendorf promote environmentally conscious, healthy living. As a non-profit organization, HLW relies on long-term social responsibility by involving socio-educational specialists such as educators, special needs educators and special needs nurses and strengthening them through further training.[7][9]
The company creates a development-promoting environment with collegial support not only for residents, but also for employees.[8]
HLW Leben & Wohnen thus embodies a holistic approach: Quality in change, focused on people. With innovative forms of housing and value-based assistance services, it enriches the lives of many in Hamburg and Ostholstein – always in the spirit of the highest self-determination.[1][3]
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