Informationen in weiteren Sprachen:
By providing this essential information, the Youth, Family and Social Affairs Office of the Town of Erftstadt aims to provide information on and clarify the procedures and offers for help, answer frequently asked questions on the subject, and point out additional offers for help and information. This information can also be accessed online and downloaded from the website of the Town of Erftstadt.
Hotline for the Town of Erftstadt
The Town of Erftstadt has set up a central hotline for questions and offers of help for arriving Ukrainian war refugees and interested citizens.
Citizens can use the hotline to contact the Town of Erftstadt to offer help of any kind to war refugees, to find out about offers of assistance, and to ask any questions they may have regarding the care of and procedures for Ukrainian war refugees.
The hotline is available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 12 noon at: 02235 409-850 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) or via e-mail at hotlineerftstadtde
Submission of offers for housing and accommodation
The Town of Erftstadt is urgently looking for housing to accommodate war refugees who are expected in Erftstadt. Citizens who would like to offer a flat or accommodation for the arriving war refugees are requested to send an e-mail with the details directly to the responsible office of the Town of Erftstadt at wohnraum-ukraineerftstadtde
Donations in kind and monetary donations for Ukraine
Donations in kind:
Donations in kind for Ukraine are collected by the Arbeiterwohlfahrt (Workers’ Welfare Association) at the building materials warehouse in Erftstadt-Lechenich, Bonner Ring 57, and transported to Ukraine via the twin towns of Erftstadt and Hürth. Donations are accepted on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12 noon to 7 pm, and on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm.
Monetary donations
The Town of Erftstadt has not set up a separate donation account for Ukraine. Citizens who would like to donate money to Ukraine will find a selection of charitable organisations collecting donations for Ukraine on the town’s website.
Hotline for volunteers
Volunteers who speak Ukrainian/Russian and would like to act as interpreters are currently urgently needed (also see Section 18). Citizens who would like to volunteer to guide and assist war refugees from Ukraine should contact the volunteer coordinator of the Town of Erftstadt, Ms Pratsch-Kleber, at 01575 2103786 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) (mobile) or via e-mail: ute.pratsch-kleberrotbach-erftauede. Ms Gonioukh, Alsou can be reached Mon to Fri from 9 am to 12 noon and from 2 pm to 4 pm by calling the mobile number 0151 12220979 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) or by sending an email to alsou.gonioukherftstadtde.
Meet-Up Cafe (Begegnungscafé):
Since May 2016, the Meet-Up Cafe for persons with refugee experience and citizens of Erftstadt has opened its doors every Friday from 3 pm to 5 pm (except during school holidays).
Ukrainian war refugees, citizens who have taken persons in and provided them with accommodations, as well as all interested citizens are cordially invited to the Meet-Up Cafe.
Address: Evangelisches Gemeinde Lechenich (Lechenich Protestant Parish), An der Vogelrute 8, 50374 Erftstadt
Counselling service and Networking Café at the Caritas Parenting and Family Counselling Centre Erftstadt for volunteers and host families:
Volunteers and host families who have specific questions or would like to take advantage of professional supervision are welcome to contact Dr Schmitz or Ms Reuver at the Parenting Counselling Centre at: www.eb-erftstadt.de (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) or by phone on 02235/6092 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
The Erftstadt Family and Parenting Counselling Centre also runs a Networking Café for volunteers and host families, with keynotes on how to deal with the situation, at the Ahrem Parish Centre, Genner Str. 34. The dates are on Tuesdays: 17 May 2022, 31 May 2022 and 19 July 2022, always from 5 pm to 7 pm
Bicycle workshop:
The volunteers in the bicycle workshop work together with refugees to repair donated bicycles. A bike in working order can be purchased for a small fee. Ukrainian war refugees in Erftstadt who need a bicycle can contact the coordinator of the bicycle workshop, Mr Krings, by phone on: 02235/74112 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
Care for unaccompanied minors
Children and young persons under the age of 18 who enter Germany without their parents are considered to be unaccompanied. They receive special care during their asylum procedure in Germany. The care they receive is relatively independent of their residence status.
According to the UN Convention, unaccompanied minors must be referred directly to the Youth Welfare Office after their first contact with the authorities in Germany. The Youth Welfare Office will initially assume guardianship. Under-aged unaccompanied refugees are placed with a suitable person or institution, and their state of health, age and possible family reunification are reviewed. A family court will assign a guardian, who will assume this role until the child reaches the age of majority.
Please inform the Youth Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt immediately by calling 02235 409-513/ 230 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) (Mr Knütter/Mr Dirlam, Mon - Fri 9 am - 2 pm) if unaccompanied minors arrive in Erftstadt. Outside the opening hours of the Youth Welfare Office, please contact its on-call service if necessary: CJG, Haus St. Gereon, Bergheim-Zieverich: Tel.: 0170/8548187 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
Healthcare for war refugees. Corona and measles protection
Healthcare:
Persons from Ukraine in need of assistance who require acute medical treatment can obtain a treatment voucher from the Social Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt. With this voucher, the costs will be covered by social services. Please also note the information under Section 9.
In extremely urgent, acute or life-threatening cases, war refugees can immediately go the emergency room in hospitals and call the emergency doctor!
Note: The hospital in Erftstadt (Marienhospital, Münchweg 3 in 50374 Erftstadt) is currently closed due to the flood disaster. The nearest hospital is the Marienhospital in Brühl, Mühlenstr. 21, 50321 Brühl-Zentrum Tel.: 02232-740
IMPORTANT: Initial medical examination service!!!!
We care deeply about your health and the health of your host family. This is why each person who arrives in Germany from Ukraine is invited to visit a doctor.
- A voluntary initial medical examination with check-up and examination for communicable diseases.
- A vaccination offer (COVID-19 vaccination and vaccination offer for vaccination against other vaccine-preventable diseases).
- Tuberculosis screening is also possible at your request. We advise you to accept these examinations, as they may be required at school or to accept employment.
You may arrange an appointment with the following doctors:
Ms Rebecca Knevel, 50374 Erftstadt, Markt 11; Tel. 02235/ 77790
Dr Ibrahim Askin, 50374 Franz-Lehnen-Str. 7a; Tel. 02235/ 84848
Dr Gülistan Boyaci, 50374 Erftstadt, Bonner Str. 32, Tel. 02235/ 955900/ 1
Further information on healthcare is available at:
https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/en/topics/health-guide-for-asylum-seekers.html (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Corona vaccination:
The Town of Erftstadt recommends that all war refugees get vaccinated immediately to protect both themselves and those helping them. War refugees can be vaccinated against COVID-19 free of charge at any time in vaccination centres, doctors’ offices, or pharmacies.
Refugees from Ukraine who are staying in Erftstadt can also receive a free vaccination against COVID-19 at the vaccination centre of the Rhine-Erft district in Hürth from Monday to Friday between 2 pm and 8 pm.
War refugees also receive free COVID-19 tests (Bürgertest), just like all other citizens.
Information on COVID-19 in multiple languages is available at https://www.integrationsbeauftragte.de/ib-de/staatsministerin/corona (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Measles vaccination:
The Measles Protection Act has been in force since 1 March 2020. All persons born after 1970 who are receiving assistance in a community facility must provide proof of this vaccination. This also applies to persons staying in communal accommodations for refugees. Further information on the topic is available at: https://www.masernschutz.de/ (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Residency in Germany
Holders of a biometric Ukrainian passport may remain in Germany without a visa for 90 days.
At present, Ukrainian war refugees do not have to live in a state facility for the time being and are allowed to register in the municipalities where they are currently staying, regardless of whether they have private accommodations with family or acquaintances, or are residing in a municipal refugee shelter.
Ukrainian war refugees do not need to apply for asylum for the time being, as they are generally granted a residence permit under Section 24 of the Residency Act (AufenthG) and thus temporary protection. This residence permit is granted temporarily for one year and can be extended for up to three years. The exact procedure is currently still being finalised.
The right of war refugees to apply for asylum in the future continues to apply at all times, and does not expire.
If a person does not seek temporary protection (residence permit for up to three years) and instead wishes to apply for asylum, it should be noted that this entails being subject to nationwide relocation. This means that asylum seekers may be required to relocate and take up residence in another federal state for the purpose of carrying out the asylum procedure. The LEA (Landeserstaufnahmeeinrichtung) in Bochum, Gersteinring 50, 44791 Bochum, Tel: 02931-826600 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) is responsible for asylum applications.
Accommodation in Erftstadt
Many residents of Erftstadt have called the hotline 02235 409-850 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) to let us know that they would like to take in Ukrainian war refugees or that they have housing available for them.
The Town of Erftstadt uses the hotline to arrange these housing offers/accommodations for the war refugees who come to Erftstadt. In this case, both the landlord and the tenant act in a private capacity. No verification of the landlord or the tenant is performed.
Please note that in order for the Town of Erftstadt to provide benefits to Ukrainian war refugees under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act (Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz), they must apply for social assistance under the Act after registering at the citizens’ office. Host families are not eligible to apply for financial support from the Town of Erftstadt.
War refugees and their helpers who are searching for a place to live in Erftstadt can call the hotline, and will be forwarded to the appropriate placement office. The Town of Erftstadt acts as an intermediary in compliance with data protection laws.
Due to the devastating flood disaster, the Town of Erftstadt currently has very limited accommodation capacity and is exempt from new allocations from the state institutions for the time being. It is currently in the process of creating new accommodation as quickly as possible.
Due to this, Ukrainian war refugees who do not have private accommodation with friends or acquaintances in Erftstadt and are dependent on aid currently cannot be housed in the town’s municipal shared accommodation. They are advised to proceed to the LEA (Landeserstaufnahmeeinrichtung) in Bochum, Gersteinring 50, 44791 Bochum, Tel: 02931-826600, for accommodation and assistance. The LEA is open daily around the clock and can also be visited without prior notice.
Application for social benefits. Assistance with living costs and medical care
Ukrainian war refugees are entitled to benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act on the basis of their residence status, provided they have no financial means and are in need of financial assistance with regard to the costs of accommodation, financial benefits, or medical care.
Expressing a request for protection and assistance at the Social Welfare Office (Sozialamt) leads to registration under the Federal Registration Act (Bundesmeldegesetz) and access to benefits. Hence, in order to receive benefits from the Social Welfare Office, war refugees must first register at the citizens’ office (Bürgerbüro) of the Town of Erftstadt and then make an appointment at the Foreigners’ Registration Office (Ausländerbehörde) to apply for their residence title.
The aforementioned requirements do not apply in emergencies and cases of hardship. In emergency cases, the Social Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt can be contacted immediately to issue a treatment voucher.
The Social Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt in the Town Hall (Rathaus) of Erftstadt-Liblar, Holzdamm 10 is responsible for social benefit applications.
The application for social assistance can only be submitted to the Benefits department of the Social Welfare Office after making an appointment by telephone. The Benefits department can be contacted via the central telephone number of the Town of Erftstadt (Tel.: 02235/409-0).
IMPORTANT CHANGE FROM 1 JUNE 2022!
Like recognised asylum seekers requiring assistance, war refugees from Ukraine who require assistance should be able to receive these benefits (Books II or XII of the German Social Code (SGB)) in future, instead of the benefits under the Asylum Seekers’ Benefits Act (AsylbLG). To do so, they must register in the Central Register of Foreigners and present a temporary residence permit issued on the basis of the registration or a residence title pursuant to section 24 para. 1 Residence Act (AufenthG). The necessary amendments to current laws will be made without delay so that they can enter into force on 1 June 2022.
From this time, the Job Centre Rhein-Erft, Erftstadt Branch,
Bonner Str. 9-11 in 50374 Erftstadt (Tel. 02235/95517/227 or /228) will be the responsible service provider and not the Social Welfare Office.
Note: Recipients who have already applied for benefits at the Social Welfare Office in the Town of Erftstadt and are changing to the Job Centre will be notified in writing by the Social Welfare Office about how to proceed when changing the benefit provider.
Registration at the citizens' office of the Town of Erftstadt
Ukrainian citizens who have entered the country without a visa and hold a valid passport are allowed to travel or continue travelling within the European Union.
Ukrainian citizens who are staying in Erftstadt within the visa-free entry period (90 days) and do not require any benefits do not need to register in Erftstadt for the time being if they are not sure whether they wish to live in Erftstadt permanently. They do not have to register until the 90-day period has expired.
War refugees from Ukraine can only apply for a residence permit and any necessary social benefits if they are registered in a municipality in Germany.
Ukrainian war refugees who arrive in Erftstadt and have found accommodation should immediately call the citizens’ office of the Town of Erftstadt, Bonner Strasse 32, 50374 Erftstadt-Lechenich, on 02235/409-140 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) and make an appointment for registration in accordance with the Federal Registration Act. An interpreter may be required. If necessary, one can be arranged for by the citizens’ office of the Town of Erftstadt.
For the registration, the citizens’ office will require the respective passport, civil status documents proving marital status (e.g. marriage certificate), and a housing provider confirmation. All persons wishing to register are required to appear in person. Children are to attend the registration.
The housing provider confirmation is to be filled out by the person providing the accommodations. The housing provider confirmation form (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung) can be downloaded from the website of the Town of Erftstadt.
Please ensure that war refugees can always be contacted by post, in particular by labelling a letterbox accordingly.
The registration office must be notified if a pet has also travelled. The citizens’ office will then provide information on what steps need to be taken next.
Registration at the Foreigners’ Registration Office / Applying for a residence title
Ukrainian war refugees who do not require social benefits within the visa-free entry period (90 days) are only registered with the respective Foreigners’ Registration Office when they apply for a residence title. Registration with the Foreigners’ Registration Office is only required shortly before the expiry of this period (90 days).
After the accommodation arrangements have been clarified and the registration of address has been completed (registration at the citizens’ office in Erftstadt), newly registered Ukrainian war refugees automatically receive an appointment to appear at the Foreigners’ Registration Office to apply for a residence permit under Section 24 of the Residency Act and be registered.
A notification for this appointment will be sent by post. Hence, immediately after registering at the citizens’ office, the war refugees are to ensure that they can be contacted by post. (Letterbox with clearly legible name)
During the appointment at the Foreigners’ Registration Office (Willy-Brandt-Platz 1, 50126 Bergheim), it is mandatory for the applicant and all family members to appear in person, as identification and registration will also take place.
The following documents must be brought along: Completed and signed application for a residence permit, 2 biometric passport photos, valid passport from home country or other identification documents (if available).
Residency restriction:
All persons who express a request for protection in connection with the Ukraine crisis and apply for a residence permit under Section 24 Residence Act will be assigned a residency restriction when receiving public benefits.
Persons who are assigned to the municipalities from an initial reception centre by the Arnsberg district government will automatically receive a residency restriction as well.
The local Foreigners’ Registration Office will add the residency restriction to the temporary residence permit and will later enclose it with the residence title on a separate page.
Entry and stay without a valid and recognised passport or alternative identity card
The German authorities do not consider it unlawful for citizens from Ukraine to whom the Transitional Ordinance on Residence for Ukraine (Ukraine AufenthÜV) applies to enter and stay in Germany without a valid and recognised passport or alternative identity card Criminal liability and reporting obligations do not apply in this regard. Identity checks, registration and issue of a temporary certificate will remain in force. Persons must still credibly demonstrate that their circumstances are factually related to the situation in Ukraine. In the event that war refugees have lost their passports or have entered the country without a passport, they should also contact the Foreigners’ Registration Office.
Temporary recognition of the UKR ID card model 2015
The Ukrainian ID card (2015 model) will receive temporary recognition as a substitute passport until 23 February 2023. This recognition has been published in the Federal Gazette (BAnz Page 2 of 3 AT 18/03/2022 B12) and entered into effect retroactively as per 24 February 2022. Recognition makes it easier for holders of this identification to open a bank account in compliance with money laundering regulations (Section 3 para. 1 in conjunction with Section 71 para. 6 Residence Act in conjunction with Section 12 para. 1 no. 1 of the Money Laundering Act (GwG)). It also facilitates identification when arriving in Germany and in dealings with national authorities.
For further questions, interested parties can contact the Rhein-Erft district via e-mail at ukrainerhein-erft-kreisde.
Note: Please also refer to the constantly updated information on the residence situation of Ukrainian nationals on the website of the Town of Erftstadt.
Distribution points for free food and clothing in Erftstadt, Social furniture warehouse
Persons in need in Erftstadt have the opportunity to receive food and clothing free of charge at the distribution points of the Erftstädter Tafel and the Erftstädter Kleiderkammern respectively.
Food distribution points of the Erftstädter Tafel:
Lechenich distribution point: Pfarrzentrum St. Kilian (Parish Office), Franz-Busbach-Straße 9
50374 Erftstadt-Lechenich,
Opening hours: Wednesdays + Fridays from 10 am to 10:45 am
Liblar distribution point:
Carl-Schurz-Straße 112, Entry via courtyard, next to St. Alban,
50374 Erftstadt-Liblar,
Opening hours: Wednesdays + Friday from 11 am to 12:00 pm
Kierdorf distribution point:
Dechant-Nöthen-Weg 1 (Shooting Club),
50374 Erftstadt-Kierdorf,
Opening hours: Tuesdays from 10:30 am
Clothing distribution points of the Erftstädter Kleiderkammern:
St. Kilian clothing warehouse for clothes and home textiles,
Franz-Busbachstr. 9
Mondays from 3 pm to 4:30 pm,
Outside opening hours: 0174 2691641 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)(Ms Lessenich)
Clothing warehouse of the Erftstadt-Ville parish in Liblar
Im Tafelhaus, Carl-Schurz-Str. 112
Clothes issue (not during holidays: Tuesday from 4 pm to 6 pm,
1st Thursday of the month from 10 am to 12 moon, starting on 5 May 2022
Clothes acceptance (not during holidays: Mondays from 4 pm to 6 pm
ASB clothing distribution point:
Ukrainian refugees are invited to pick up daily necessities such as clothing, food, toys and hygiene products at Bonner Ring 57 Erftstadt / Lechenich. Opening hours: Mon/Wed/Fri from 5 pm to 7 pm and Sat from 9 am to 11 am.
Furniture warehouse “Am Giezenbach 22”
Furniture donations in good condition are collected by Helios from the donor free of charge and – for a small fee – brought to the recipient and set up there.
To donate furniture, please call 02235 9880295 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) or send an e-mail to moebelboerse-erftstadtheliosrheinlandde
Department for Migration and Integration / Integration Advice
The Department for Migration and Integration within the Youth, Family and Social Affairs Office of the Town of Erftstadt is the contact and advisory centre for all asylum seekers and refugees in Erftstadt.
It supports and advises this group of persons in all aspects of life, provide them with guidance in Erftstadt and assist them with integration. It is also responsible for the operation of municipal shared accommodation in the town area, as well as for housing persons with refugee experience.
In-person visits only after appointment by phone on:
Ms Gonioukh, Alsou
+4915112220979 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Mr Papapostolou, Ilias (Head of Department)
+491703380211 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Ms Auert, Sandy (Integration Officer)
+491602736776
Mr Bradic, Samir (Social Worker)
+4915152427893 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
On-call migrant support worker / in emergencies
+491703873562 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Mon-Sun 3:30 pm – 12 midnight
We can assist if you require advice on language courses, job placements or school and leisure activities for children. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have other questions as well. Ms Gonioukh speaks Russian and can translate your questions and concerns.
Note: We will gladly come and visit you with your host family if requested. Kindly arrange an appointment with us to discuss your questions and concerns.
Kindergarten places and childcare
Parents who are looking for a kindergarten in Erftstadt for their children can use the Kita-Navigator of the Youth Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt to obtain information quickly and easily, as well as to directly pre-register online.
The Kita-Navigator is available at https://erftstadt.kita-navigator.org/ (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) The website also answers frequently asked questions (FAQ) related to the subject.
An entry in Kita-Navigator is merely a reservation, and not a registration. It means that your child will be placed on the waiting list of the selected day care centre (Kita). This waiting list then forms the basis for the allocation of places, which is carried out according to certain criteria or legal provisions by the respective day care centre management or its agency. The pre-registration must be performed again for each kindergarten year.
An alternative to a day care centre is, for example, care by a qualified childminder. The Youth Welfare Office of the Town of Erftstadt will be glad to help with finding one.
Early registration is recommended.
For personal queries, parents can contact the staff of the kindergarten care (Kindergartenbetreuung) department via the central telephone number of the town administration at 02235-409-0.
School attendance
Children aged 6 to 18 who are registered with the Foreigners’ Registration Office and have a residence title under Section 24 of the Residency Act must attend school. The parents of these children will receive a written notification to clarify the school at which registration is to take place.
Parents of children aged 6 to 10
These parents will receive a letter from the school administration office of the Town of Erftstadt, namely from Ms Claudia Weyrich, claudia.weyricherftstadtde. Children are placed in the primary school closest to their home.
Parents of children aged 10 to 18
These parents will receive a letter from their district’s school supervisory authority. During the allocation, the families arriving from Ukraine will also receive counselling on the appropriate schooling of children and young persons. Questions regarding compulsory schooling, appropriate schooling and the registration procedure for children and young people in Erftstadt schools should be directed to the responsible Specialist Advisory Centre for Integration of the school board of the Rhein-Erft district, Mr Lars Kohlhase, phone: 02271/83-14027 or Lars.kohlhaserhein-erft-kreisde and Ms Simone Pott, simone.pottrhein-erft-kreisde
If Ukrainian children present themselves at schools in Erftstadt without prior allocation by the school supervisory authority, school attendance is to be made possible in coordination between the school board responsible for the allocation, the school authority (Town of Erftstadt) and the respective school – also in anticipation of the expected legal situation.
Note: Since 2021, compulsory vaccination against measles is a prerequisite in order to attend school.
Language and integration courses in Erftstadt
Ukrainian war refugees can attend integration and other language courses at the Adult Education Centre (VHS) in Erftstadt.
If you have any questions about language courses and attending German and integration courses at the Adult Education Centre in Erftstadt, Bahnhofstrasse 7, please call 02235 /409-276 or 02235 /409-273 to make an appointment for a consultation with Ms Christiane Paar, christiane.paarvhs-erftstadtde.
The VHS has organised a free welcome course that starts on 4 April 2022, and Ukrainians can also take part in integration courses. Admission to the courses is handled by the VHS for all persons who register for the consultation.
Gainful employment / Registration as a job-seeker / Recognition of school leaving certificates and qualifications
The residence permit under Section 24 of the Residency Act allows the holder to take up employment. Self-employment is not permitted.
War refugees may register as job-seekers with the competent Employment Agency (Arbeitsamt) in Brühl Wilhelm-Kamm-Str. 1, 50321 Brühl, where they will receive advice.
Employment Agency information page (internet) for refugees from Ukraine:
This page contains some relevant information from different areas such as residence, housing and financial support (child benefit). Please visit the internet page at https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/ukraine (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) for details.
Information on the recognition of qualifications is available at:
https://anabin.kmk.org/no_cache/filter/schulabschluesse-mit-hochschulzugang.html#land_gewaehlt (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
https://www.anerkennung-in-deutschland.de/html/de/index.php (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
In general, the recognition of school-leaving qualifications by the district governments is free of charge: Cologne for secondary school qualifications (Hauptschulabschluss, Realschulabschluss), Düsseldorf for vocational diplomas and A-Level equivalents (Fachabitur, Abitur).
Counselling and recreational activities for young persons in Erftstadt
Mother & Child Group, Frühe Hilfen/KIDZ.
Open meeting for Ukrainian families with children aged 0-6.
The Early Support Services (Frühe Hilfen) in the Town of Erftstadt organise an open meeting for Ukrainian parents with children aged 0-6. It is held every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 noon at Bahnhofstr.7, 50374 Liblar (in the building of the VHS, in the KIDZ (basement).
If you have any questions about the meeting, please call Ms Uta Langener on 0160 1675121 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
Mobilé Youth Counselling of the Town of Erftstadt
The Mobilé Youth Counselling of the Town of Erftstadt offers qualified counselling and information services for young people in Erftstadt on topics relevant for youths, leisure activities for young people and children, and much more.
Contact: Jugendberatung Mobilé
Herriger Strasse 20
50374 Erftstadt
Tel: 02235-952255 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
E-mail: teamjugendberatung-mobilede (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Website: www.jugendberatung-mobile.de (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
Note: The ErftstadtApp provides reliable information about offerings for young people in Erftstadt.
Youth Migration Service / jmd Rhein-Erft
jmd Rhein-Erft is an integration centre for young persons aged 12-27 with a migration background and their families. jmd offers counselling and support for all integration-related questions and challenges. This includes linguistic, educational, vocational and social integration.
The jmd office is located at Kölner Strasse 1, 50226 Frechen, and can be reached by phone at 02234-99959914 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
Support Programme “Durchstarten in Ausbildung und Arbeit / Gemeinsam Klappt’s”.
Young war refugees aged 18 to 27 are eligible to participate in all offerings to obtain qualifications, training and further education, e.g. catching up on school-leaving qualifications, language courses, etc.
Mr Pauli is the representative for Erftstadt and advises young adult war refugees on qualification opportunities. He can be contacted at: E-mail: d.pauliawo-bm-eunet
or by calling the following mobile number to make an appointment: 0172 3465622 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
Erftstadt Music School. Music School programmes for war refugees and other refugees
German language skills are not required! Attendance is free. For all ages (from 3 years): - beginners’ music group without previous knowledge - intercultural ensemble music with instruments – please contact us if you do not have an instrument – further services if required. When: Tuesdays: beginners’ music group (2 pm to 3 pm, from 3 years) / Wednesdays: beginners’ music group (5:15 pm to 6:15 pm, from 3 years) / Wednesdays: intercultural music group (5:15 pm to 6 pm; from 7 years) / Thursdays: intercultural music group (3:45 pm to 4:45 pm); further services by arrangement. Contact: Office of the Erftstadt Music School: musikschuleerftstadtde, 02235-409680 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)(German) Course leader: Mariya.milutsinaerftstadtde (German, Russian)
Interpreters and translators
Should citizens require a Ukrainian- or Russian-speaking interpreter in various situations, they can also contact the Municipal Integration Centre (KI) of the Rhine-Erft district. An interpreter can then be arranged upon request.
How can I become an interpreter?
Do you speak Ukrainian or Russian? If so, do contact the KI of the Rhein-Erft district to be included in the pool of interpreters so that you can be assigned to clients within the Rhein-Erft district. Please clarify the details and requirements with Mr Al-Daroukh.
Contact: Language pool
Mr Al-Daroukh
Tel: 02271/ 8310236 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab)
E-mail: mahmoud.al-daroukhrhein-erft-kreisde
Benefits for Education and Social Participation (BuT)
The benefits for Education and Social Participation (BuT) are regulated in Section 6b of the Federal Child Benefits Act (BKGG).
The various benefits for Education and Social Participation (BuT), also called the Education Package, support children, youths, and young adults from families who have little money. With these benefits, children can take advantage of school and leisure activities they would otherwise not be able to afford. Benefits for Education and Social Participation can be applied for via the respective social services.
The benefits for Education and Social Participation include:
- One-day school and daycare excursions (actual costs),
- School and daycare trips lasting several days (actual costs),
- Personal school supplies (a total of 156 euros per school year),
- Transportation of pupils to school (actual costs – even if local public transport tickets for pupils provided for this purpose entitle the holder to general journeys apart from travelling to school),
- Supplementary tuition (actual costs – tutoring if pupil is directly at risk of being held back a year). A recommendation from the school is required for this.
- Participation in a communal midday meal in school or daycare facilities (actual costs),
- Participation in social and cultural life in the community (such as in a sports club or music school in the amount of 15 euros per month).
The school supplies package was increased from 154.50 euros per child per school year to 156 euros as of 1 January 2022.
Miscellaneous information
- The use of local public transport (ÖPNV) and the railway (Bahn) is free of charge for war refugees from Ukraine, until further notice and upon presentation of their passport (from their home country). Deutsche Bahn (German railways) has compiled information at https://www.bahn.de/info/helpukraine. The information is also available in Ukrainian.
- Contact details for employees involved in counselling services for senior citizens, persons requiring nursing care and disabled persons in the Town of Erftstadt:
Ms Feils-Wolff, Tel.: 02235-409-113 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab), irene.feils-wolfferftstadtde
Ms Luxem, Tel.: 02235-409-120 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab), elke.luxemerftstadtde
Ms Wolf, Tel.: 02235-409-119 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab), heike.wolferftstadtde
Senior citizens, persons requiring nursing care and persons with a disability from Ukraine are invited to contact the senior citizens’, nursing care and disability counselling service in the Town of Erftstadt to obtain detailed advice and support.
- The Social Psychiatric Service of the Rhein-Erft district advises adults and their relatives with mental illnesses, addiction problems, age-related mental illnesses, or psychosocial problems. The Social Psychiatric Service of the Rhine-Erft district can be reached at 02271/83-0.
- The Cologne Lawyers’ Association offers free legal advice to Ukrainian war refugees. Particularly for aspects related to asylum and social law, special consultations are available at the Cologne District Court on Luxemburger Strasse. With immediate effect, these consultations are available every Tuesday and Thursday from 12 noon to 2 pm. No prior appointment is needed.
- The Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI), #Unterkunft-Ukraine and the non-profit organisation Airbnb.org have agreed on a collaboration for the accommodation of arrivals from Ukraine. Working together with aid organisations, arrivals will now be placed with welcoming families throughout Germany. Persons who would like to offer accommodation to refugees can register on www.unterkunft-ukraine.de (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) or Airbnb.org.
- Authentication of the offering parties during registration and a process supervised by aid organisations ensure security for all parties involved. (Source: BMI press release dated 10/03/2022)
- For reasons of hygiene and safety, pets cannot be accommodated in municipal shared accommodation. In cooperation with Tierhilfe Vierbeiner Erftstadt e.V., foster homes for the animals can be arranged if necessary.
The authorities responsible for Ukrainian war refugees are required to report pets that have entered the country to the responsible municipal veterinary authorities so that they can ensure that the animals are officially monitored. The competent veterinary authorities will then also decide on the suitability of available premises for isolation of the animals in compliance with animal quarantine laws. Please note that the exemptions described apply exclusively to the non-commercial entry of pet animals accompanying the refugees. In exceptional cases, the competent local authorities may waive the charging of fees.
Further information and help portals
- The Welcome App Germany
The Welcome App Germany provides interested persons with information about life in Germany. It is therefore intended as practical guidance. The app explains the processes of migration and integration and names the relevant contact persons. Also included are useful tips to manage everyday life in your new environment. https://deutschland.welcome-app-germany.de/de/ (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) - The GRC Tracing Service (German Red Cross) searches for people who have been separated from relatives due to ongoing armed conflicts and disasters worldwide.
The documents are available in several languages on the website of the GRC Tracing Service. https://www.drk-suchdienst.de/ (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) - Detailed and up-to-date information on leaving Ukraine and staying in Germany can be found on the website of the Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration at https://www.integrationsbeauftragte.de/ib-de/staatsministerin/krieg-in-der-ukraine (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab) and on the website of the Arnsberg District Government at https://www.bra.nrw.de/integration-migration/ukraine-krieg (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).
- Federal Government “Germany4Ukraine” help portal for refugees from Ukraine arriving in Germany
The Ministry for Children, Family, Refugees and Integration (MKFFI) of North Rhine-Westphalia has announced that the “Germany4Ukraine” help portal is online. It can be accessed at www.germany4ukraine.de. As an official, state-run services addressing a wide range of issues, it provides information on accommodation, basic topics as well as medical care in Germany. The information and services are available in several languages, namely in Ukrainian, Russian, English and German. - We would like to draw your attention to the flyer published by the German Network against Trafficking in Human Beings (KOK). The information material with advice on the dangers of human trafficking and support opportunities for refugees from Ukraine is available on the KOK website (in several languages): https://www.kok-gegen-menschenhandel.de/kok-informiert/news/detail/schutz-vor-menschenhandel-und-ausbeutung-auf-der-flucht-1 (Öffnet in einem neuen Tab).