170 children are currently being cared for in the Caritas learning cafes – this is where they play and learn. Volunteers support the children in learning so that they can enjoy their school days. Andrea Schmid, deputy director of Caritas Salzburg: “In ten years we have accompanied, supported and looked after around 400 children. We tried to bring them education and strengthen their social skills. I think that’s a huge achievement.”

Six locations in the province of Salzburg

The first two learning cafes were set up in Elisabethvorstadt in the city of Salzburg and in Zell am See (Pinzgau). There are now six locations. Sonja Dick was there from the start. Today she manages the Pinzgau locations in Zell am See and Mittersill as well as the Pongau location in Bischofshofen: “We are friends and confidants and often also the mediators between parents and school. The connection is of course very intense. So there are already some tears when the children leave us. When they stand here in the learning cafe years later and tell us about their lives, that naturally makes us very proud.”

Learning cafes are free

Participation in learning cafes is free of charge. Children between the ages of six and 15 can be registered. The integration and the exchange of the many nations and cultures is defined as a goal as well as a good school certificate. The state is supporting the campaign with 112,000 euros. Integration Minister Andrea Klambauer (Neos) on this: “We are continuously expanding the offer of the learning café and of course volunteers who want to get involved here are also needed for each location. It is important to us that the children receive long-term support.”

support options

The campaign can be supported with non-fiction book donations – or with a little time. Caregivers who are interested can contact Caritas online. The anniversary will also be celebrated on Wednesday in the open-air museum.