A good neighborhood, according to Witten, is a nightmare for burglars.
In the heart of Witten, a tragic incident occurred at Pestalozziplatz in the district of Buchholz. A fire, caused by a technical defect in a garden house, severely damaged three houses belonging to rental company Vivawest. Amidst the chaos, one resident, Cedric Hohlbein, lost almost everything in the fire. However, the community has shown remarkable resilience and support.
Cedric, who lives with his mother Nicole, has received clothing and monetary donations from neighbours and local residents. The spirit of community was further evident when neighbours, through a WhatsApp group, quickly provided temporary accommodations for the affected parties in their attic apartments.
The neighbourhood initiatives in Witten have always played a significant role in fostering a strong sense of community. These include local neighbourhood associations, cultural and sports clubs, environmental initiatives, educational and youth programs, senior citizen clubs, and events and festivals.
In Buchholz and Marienviertel, the local associations organise regular meetings, community clean-up events, and social gatherings to encourage interaction and cooperation among residents. The cultural and sports clubs cater to various interests, bringing together residents of different ages and backgrounds.
Community gardens and sustainability groups aim to enhance green spaces and promote environmental awareness, while local schools and youth centers collaborate with community volunteers to run after-school programs, workshops, and recreational activities. Dedicated clubs and meeting points for seniors provide social activities, health advice, and mutual support, ensuring older residents remain connected and active within the community.
Annual street festivals, markets, and cultural celebrations organised by community groups bring people together, fostering a shared neighbourhood identity. These initiatives contribute significantly to the community well-being and citizen engagement.
In times of crisis, the community watch acts as a protective shield around the neighbourhood. According to Police spokesman Frank Lemanis, neighbours looking out for each other, keeping an eye on vacant properties, and leaving lights on where needed, makes the police the second line of defense. He concludes that a well-connected neighbourhood is a nightmare for burglars.
In the aftermath of the fire, Caritas volunteers, such as Rim Alabdallah and Mendo Shahin, have stepped up their efforts. On Thursdays, Mendo helps children with their schoolwork, while in holidays they focus on crafting activities. Their dedication to helping young people and providing a supportive neighbourhood environment is more important now than ever.
For more specific names or contact information of these initiatives, local municipal websites or community centers in Witten might have updated details. If assistance is needed in finding this information, it is readily available. The resilient spirit of the Witten community continues to shine through, providing hope and support in challenging times.
Cedric, who lives with his mother Nicole, has been supported by the community beyond just material donations. Neighbors, through a WhatsApp group, have offered temporary accommodations for the affected parties in their attic apartments, displaying the strong sense of community in Witten.
In times like these, the community watch plays a significant role, acting as a protective shield for the neighborhood. By neighbors looking out for each other, they help make the police the second line of defense against crime and justice issues.
