Close to people | Stories from Bethel
Bethel washes in the flood zone
In the first few weeks after the flood disaster in the summer, the Brockensammlung lorry delivered pallets of food and donations in kind to the Ahr valley. Bethel continues to help the local people affected - for example with a laundry service. Ten washing machines are available in a tent in the centre of Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler for those who are currently unable to do their washing at home due to the floods. Even half a year after the flood, not everything is repaired and in working order, despite many efforts and great solidarity.
"There's always a lot going on here, the offer is very well received," says Beatrix Schmitz. She works as a volunteer in the Bethel laundry tent in the Moses car park, assigning machines to those in need, helping them to operate them and answering questions. "The washing machines run all day, and both older and younger people come to us with their laundry." There are a few chairs and tables next to the machines. While the laundry is going through, people can chat to each other.
Just a few steps away from the laundry tent are shower containers and mobile toilets. They are also well received. "They were provided by the city of Bielefeld," emphasises Kay Andresen, Managing Director of the neighbouring Bethel Hotel zum Weinberg together with Bethel board member Pastor Dr Johanna Will-Armstrong. "A big thank you to Bielefeld's Lord Mayor Pit Clausen for this."
Text: Philipp Kreutzer | Photos: Sarah Jonek
