Like a second home

"Here with us, children and young people have found a place where they are always welcome," emphasizes Larissa Rauter, head of The Arche in Munich. Her team not only provides support with schoolwork, but also cooks a fresh, hot lunch every day, thus contributing to a healthy diet.

"The high cost of living affects the everyday lives of many families whose children come to us," says Larissa Rauter with a twinge of regret. "The situation has deteriorated further. Many families are cutting back on healthy food to compensate for the rising prices." Hundreds take advantage of the free, hot meal offered by the Arche every day. The Arche can only continue to operate with the help of donations.

On behalf of WACKER, Martin Damjanovic from the HR department at the Consortium presented the generous donation, which is made annually. While on stage, he answered questions from young reporters – the children's interview has become something of a tradition at the Arche summer party. "What's it mean to be strong, and how do you become strong?" two girls asked. Martin Damjanovic encouraged the children not to give up when faced with challenges, but to persevere: "Whether it's a tricky math problem or when you are doing sports – if you stick to it and keep at it, you will succeed!" Then the girls wanted to know, "When was the last time you were strong? And do you have a role model?" Martin Damjanovic explained, "If you can’t do something, it’s also a sign of strength when you ask for help to get it done." He saw the many volunteers who actively participate in the Arche summer party and in the regular operation of the organization as strong role models.

The Arche and WACKER – friends from the start

The partnership with WACKER began when the City of Munich provided a container for the Arche in the northern district of Moosach in 2006. Later, a bright, modern building was erected. WACKER's Nünchritz site also supports the Arche in Meißen.

Besides the company’s support, there is also a group of WACKER volunteers who visit the Arche and also serve up a cake buffet at the annual summer party. Employees often donate privately to the Arche as well, for example through collections at anniversaries and other occasions.

The employees also partake in in-kind donations by providing items on the Arche’s online list: https://www.kinderprojekt-arche.de/helfen-sie/sachspende. School supplies are in high demand because many families struggle financially with the long list of materials required by the children for school. The Arche team also welcomes children’s clothing that is clean, in good condition and suits the season. Non-perishable foods, as indicated on the list of requirements, are also sought after. Anyone who cares to help can make a big difference with a small in-kind donation like this.