Overdue Refreshing: After Decades, Female Resident's Home at Last Gets a Furniture Facelift
The Güstrow Women's Shelter, a vital part of the support network for victims of domestic violence, is set to undergo renovation and expansion, following the receipt of funding from the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's citizen fund.
The shelter, run by the Arche association, received 40,000 euros at the end of last year. This funding will be used to purchase new and uniform furniture, as well as towards the much-needed renovation of the facility. The renovation work is set to begin as soon as it is clear that the funds are coming.
The shelter, which has been providing protection for female victims of domestic violence and their children since 1992, currently has nine apartments, accommodating a total of 21 places. Two more apartments are expected to be completed by the end of the week.
Minister Bernhardt, the Justice and Equality Minister, has announced further investments in women's shelters. The aim is to provide affected people and employees with an environment that meets the highest standards. Measures include barrier-free renovation, expanding digital infrastructure, creating additional accommodation capacities, and improving security standards.
Karin Wien, co-founder of the Women's Shelter in Güstrow, was recently honoured with the Federal Cross of Merit by Minister President Manuela Schwesig on September 17. Ms. Wien, who continues to work voluntarily for the Arche association, has also advised other cities in setting up women's shelters.
The state working group of women's shelters and counseling centers in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is largely based on Karin Wien's initiative. The region also boasts a counseling center for victims of human trafficking and forced marriage, as well as three facilities that specialize in offender and violence counseling.
In addition, the support network for victims of domestic and sexual violence in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern includes nine women's shelters, five intervention centers against domestic violence and stalking, eight counseling centers for victims of domestic violence, and several specialized counseling centers for sexual violence.
Minister Bernhardt emphasized that such a sensitive area should not be additionally burdened by inadequate spatial conditions. A modernized environment is essential to provide the affected with a protected and supportive place.
The planned takeover of the Arche association by the DRK has been postponed for now, with administrative and legal reasons cited as the cause. However, Karin Wien continues to work voluntarily for the shelter, with the takeover now scheduled for December 31.
On September 18, Minister Bernhardt handed over a grant of 13,841.16 euros to the 'Arche e.V. - for Women and Family' association. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the name of the minister who provided the funding for the renovation of the women's shelter in Güstrow.
Despite the challenges, the future looks bright for the Güstrow Women's Shelter. With the planned renovations and expansions, the shelter will continue to provide a safe haven for women and children affected by domestic violence.
