Delegation of the Greens visits DRC district association Gelnhausen-Schlüchtern
A delegation of Bündnis 90/Die Grünen from the Main-Kinzig-Kreis with their top candidates Mahwish Iftikhar and Philip Schinkel visited the DRK-Kreisverband Gelnhausen-Schlüchtern.
A special focus was placed on the Mobile Refugee Aid, which was presented by Steffen Zentgraf. With around five employees, about 200 low-threshold consultations for refugees are carried out every month, including health advice, accompaniment to doctor's appointments and consultation hours. While the project was still fully financed by the Main-Kinzig-Kreis in 2025, only 50 percent of the funding is now provided by the district; the remaining resources shall be borne by the DRC from its own resources. From 2027 onwards, a continuation from own resources would no longer be possible.
Mahwish Iftikhar said: "Mobile refugee assistance is a key building block for integration and health care. If funding gaps arise here, higher social follow-up costs threaten in the long term. Preventive counselling not only strengthens those affected, but also relieves the burden on municipal structures.”
The DRK-Kreisverband Gelnhausen-Schlüchtern is economically independent and solidly positioned. Around 400 employees work in the association, including about 300 employees in twelve rescue teams. In addition, there are five locations in the nursing service. This structure is also supported by around 900 volunteers – including around 300 young people – who are involved in local communities.
The role of the Main-Kinzig-Kreis as a Hessian pilot district in the use of telemedical support in the rescue service was highlighted positively. In appropriately equipped ambulances, an emergency doctor can be connected via video if necessary, which explains the work of the emergency paramedics.
Clearly relieved.
Particular emphasis is placed on training: With the rescue service school Gelnhausen, the district association has its own, state-recognised educational institution, which invests specifically in qualification and promotion of young talent. It forms the strategic centre for training, further education and training in the rescue service and sustainably ensures the recruitment and development of qualified specialists. In this way, the rescue service school makes a significant contribution to regional added value and to ensuring efficient services of general interest in the long term.
The Greens delegation concluded by expressing its thanks to all the volunteers and volunteers for their commitment: “We are fortunate to have such a powerful and committed partner in civil protection and social work with the DRK Kreisverband Gelnhausen-Schlüchtern. This work deserves a reliable political framework and sustained support
In the photo you can see (from l. n. r.):
Steffen Zentgraf, Lene Jeckel, Cornelia Hofacker, Reiner Bousonville, Philip Schinkel, Fabian Gastine and Mahwish Iftikhar.
English (UK)