ONE YEAR OF SUPPORTING HINZ & KUNZT
by Stella Kwong-Reichmann and Carol Harbers
At the 2025 Annual General Meeting, our members chose Hinz & Kunzt as our local charity for 2025 – 2026. We were eager to learn more about the organization and discover how we could make a meaningful contribution.
One year later, we are proud of what we have achieved together. The strong support from our members has been truly encouraging. Our involvement has included informative events, practical assistance, and successful fundraising initiatives.
Our kick-off meeting with an H & K social worker provided valuable insight into the challenges faced by women living on the streets. This topic was later explored in two Currents articles. Another highlight was the Alternative City Tour, where participants were guided through Hamburg by Chris, who had experienced homelessness firsthand. Hearing how Hinz & Kunzt helped transform a life— from hardship and hopelessness to steady work and housing— deepened our understanding of the organization’ s impact. We plan to offer similar events again in 2026.
Access to hygiene products remains a constant challenge for people living on the streets. Tracy and Stella sewed fifty colorful toiletry bags filled with donated essentials, such as toothpaste, lotion, and tampons. In addition, we donated twentyfive drugstore vouchers, giving women the dignity of choosing necessary sanitary supplies themselves.
At an Advent gathering, we were delighted to present a check for € 1,500— proceeds from our 2025 fundraising activities, including the donations for Andrea’ s beautiful quilt and our September flea market. The funds were gratefully received by Jörn Sturm, managing director. Not only are we proud of what we have accomplished— we are also more aware than ever of the challenge ahead for 2026: not only to raise funds for their social work, but to raise awareness of the vital role Hinz & Kunzt plays in our city.
A special thank-you to all the members who have donated their time, money, and energy in supporting our local charity!
Hands-on support has been especially meaningful. Once a month, we bring sandwiches and muffins to the Hinz & Kunzt headquarters when vendors collect the newest issue. In the busy atmosphere of distribution day, vendors gather for coffee and a bite to eat, and smiles greet our arrival. We have also provided cakes, finger food, and salads for their Sommerfest, a birthday celebration, and Advent gatherings.“ The Americans are here!” has become a cheerful call that signals something delicious is coming.
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