Furniture storage for needy citizens at Werkstraße

Families and citizens from Bocholt who have to get by on little money and receive support from the state can get furniture that is still in good condition for little money in Bocholt. Household goods such as washing machines, microwaves, crockery, pots and pans and more are also sold at low prices in the second-hand goods store. Clothing and toys for children can also be found there.

The furniture warehouse for needy people in Bocholt, which previously used a hall on Industriestraße, has moved and can now be reached at Werkstraße 19. The furniture warehouse is run by a voluntary initiative, supported by the city of Bocholt and its subsidiary EWIBO.

"Happy to be able to help"

The team of helpers includes Alfred Deinert, Leo Engenhorst, Michael Hesselmann, Stefanie Niehaus and Werner Schwung. In the furniture warehouse, they receive things, sort and clean them, prepare them, hand things out - and sometimes even give people their ear. The group puts their heart and soul into their work. Their motivation: "We are simply happy to be able to help people, especially now in difficult times."

Association in the making

Last year, in the wake of the refugee crisis, the initiative launched an appeal for donations to the people of Bocholt. The appeal met with a great response. Since then, the group has been able to help hundreds of people in need. At the same time, the effort for the "good deed" became greater and greater. Despite the active support of the fire brigade, THW and Malteser, the group reached its limits. The idea was born to give the project a permanent structure.

An association with the name "We like to help, Bocholt" is to be founded soon. In addition, the municipal subsidiary EWIBO supports the project. It provides rooms at Werkstraße, the former headquarters of the company. EWIBO also supports the voluntary group in the handling of the project. "As EWIBO, we have a very special responsibility for our citizens. We see ourselves as a small partner of the initiative," says EWIBO Managing Director Azra Zürn.

Start-up funding

The city of Bocholt provides start-up funding of 40,000 euros. This was decided in the social committee. "Due to inflation, the refugee crisis and against the background of sustainability, this is a project that has many good aspects. Therefore, we are pleased that this can be implemented here at such short notice with so much voluntary commitment," says Max Benda, Head of the Department of Social Affairs.

Important information at a glance:

Where can I find the furniture warehouse?

Werkstraße 19, 46395 Bocholt

When is it open?

Opening hours:

Tuesday 10-12 h

Wednesday 13-15 h

Thursday 13-15 h

Saturday 10am-12pm

Who can I contact?

Mr Engenhorst: Tel. 0175 4012628

Ms Mörsig (EWIBO): Tel. 02871 217-650

How do I get furniture and household effects?

Citizens who would like to have furniture and household effects can visit the furniture warehouse during opening hours. They must show proof that they are receiving social benefits, usually the benefit notification from the office. In principle, the offer is for self-collection. Those who are unable to transport things themselves can receive transport assistance.

What and how can I donate?

The following can be donated

• Furniture
• Household goods
• Clothes
• Toys

Items and objects must be in good condition and intact. They can be delivered during the opening hours of the furniture warehouse. Alternatively, furniture can also be collected, please contact the contact persons.

The initiative also accepts monetary donations (see contact addresses).