The first residents arrived in the middle of the renovation. “In the following months they trickled in,” Bakker explains. “These are people who experience problems in several areas, such as psychologically, financially or in terms of addiction. In addition, people from the former shelter have been given a place here.” In January, 32 apartments had already been booked.
At the beginning of this year, the Salvation Army already indicated that it wanted to restart the familiar neighborhood consultation. According to Bakker, this already took place before the summer. “There were some concerns, as nuisance was experienced during the shelter.” But it is now a completely different function, says Bakker. “And that reassured people.”
Some local residents have already signed up as volunteers, she said. “Everyone is also happy that the building is occupied again (after some time of vacancy).”
One of the residents is Freek Doldersum, who already stayed in De Breehof when it was still a shelter. He is sitting relaxed with a cup of coffee at the picnic table at the rear of the building. “I have been with the Salvation Army for seven years. I was incarcerated at the time. Because of drugs, crime, you name it. Then I was offered housing in De Breehof. Including a trajectory. And that has given me a lot of peace.”
Doldersum points to his surroundings; an animal pasture, lined with characteristic beech trees. “I spent a while in Emmen before this, but I am so happy that I can come here again. Nice and quiet and secluded. Yes, I have found my spot.”