Hope for children - The Ark in Hamburg

The Ark (“Die Arche”) offers children from socially disadvantaged families a safe haven and support in various areas of life. The warm atmosphere, which gives the children space to develop and flourish, is particularly striking. Many of the families concerned struggle with extremely low incomes. Language barriers, the consequences of the pandemic and high inflation exacerbate their situation. Single parents and families with several children are particularly affected. The Ark relies on close cooperation with parents to achieve sustainable improvements.

The Arche's key services include a hot meal after school, homework help and creative leisure activities. The children can do handicrafts, research and be physically active. Another important project is the support of young people through the “Encourager Project”, in which a person of trust accompanies them in their school and career decisions. Around 50 young people a year have been successfully integrated into the world of work in this way.

The Ark reaches over 10,000 children and young people at 33 locations in Germany, including three in Hamburg (Jenfeld, Billstedt, Harburg). Since its foundation in 1995, 96% of its work has been financed by donations. Dr. Weigert has supported the Arche with regular donations for many years in order to maintain its services and improve the children's quality of life.