On November 14, the budget of the City of Amsterdam was adopted. An important moment, when it becomes clear what choices will be made from municipal politics. We take stock.
De Regenboog Groep has been committed to helping people in a vulnerable position in Amsterdam for fifty years. We do this because we believe that everyone belongs, even or especially when things are not going well. If someone is in trouble due to loneliness, debt, addiction, psychiatric problems, not having the right papers or homelessness. We do this with socially engaged professionals and volunteers.
We worry
We are getting busier. And if our organization has to grow, it is a sign that problems in our society are increasing. We know from experience what the consequences will be of a rise in homelessness, of loneliness and increasing polarization and hardening.
The national policy does not cheer us. The Coalition Program says nothing about the previously nationally stated ambition to eliminate homelessness by 2030. The national abolition of the subsidy for the reception of undocumented migrants and the stricter asylum policy will, in our view, lead to even more problems.
City of Amsterdam budget
We are pleased that the City of Amsterdam is showing that, even in these times, it continues to stand up for all these different Amsterdammers. By continuing the strengthening of the approach to homelessness for all those different groups of homeless people, by doing just more for all newcomers in the city and by continuing the reception of undocumented people in 2025.
.This is necessary because we know what happens when people feel less welcome or safe in the city. This makes people seem further apart, while we want and need to be a solidary and connected city with each other - especially in these times.
Connect
Together with our partners in the city and all 1,400 lovely volunteers, we prove that everyone belongs in Amsterdam. With incredible energy and solidarity, together we create more connection. And this is needed more than ever.
The many meetings in our walk-in centres, community restaurants and workplaces prove that this is possible. All those people who approach us, individuals, organizations and companies, who want to contribute with time or money, give hope.
With a good dose of optimism, perseverance and guts, we try to make that connection, seek new solutions and stand up for those who just can't or need an extra helping hand.
And we will continue to do so.