Harbor School: An Exceptional Form of Public Higher Education Institution
In the heart of Hamburg, nestled within the Hoffnungsorte Hamburg association, lies a unique social and educational initiative known as the Schulhafen. This project, inspired by the tranquil and protective environment of a harbor, serves as a sanctuary for individuals who are facing social exclusion, such as the homeless, those struggling with addiction, or those experiencing social isolation.
The Schulhafen offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to empower and support its visitors, providing them with a much-needed sense of community and hope for a brighter future.
**Services at the Schulhafen**
1. **Personalized Counseling and Support** The Schulhafen's dedicated team listens and advises, helping individuals navigate complex social systems, access essential services like healthcare and housing, and find resources for addiction treatment.
2. **Education and Vocational Training** The project offers a variety of courses in various fields, including language, arts, crafts, computers, music, gardening, sewing, cooking, and household management. These programs aim to improve personal skills and employability, facilitating reintegration into society and the labor market.
3. **Community and Social Integration** The Schulhafen fosters a sense of belonging by organizing group activities, social events, and peer support networks. These initiatives help reduce social isolation and encourage positive social interactions.
4. **Basic Needs Assistance** The project provides access to meals, hygiene facilities, and a safe space to rest, addressing immediate survival needs for those in precarious situations.
5. **Creative and Therapeutic Activities** Some programs include art, music, or therapeutic workshops, which support emotional healing and personal development.
One inspirational story from the Schulhafen involves an elderly homeless woman who sewed a coat from a donated blanket, demonstrating the transformative power of creative activities and the sense of community that the project fosters.
**The Schulhafen's Patrons and Financial Support**
The Schulhafen's financial support comes from various sources, including the Haspa Lottery Savings funds and Haspa Berliner Tor, which acts as a patron branch. This support enables the project to make urgent purchases like new tables, chairs, and laptops for its computer course.
Katy Thompson, the director of the Schulhafen, moved back to Germany after living in America for 16 years. She grew up in Stuttgart and has a background in nursing. Thompson believes that education is a bridge to self-confidence and courage, and she has been leading the Schulhafen for five years alongside her colleague Gudula Ambrosi.
The Schulhafen warmly welcomes all visitors, regardless of their living situation or nationality. It serves as a beacon of hope, offering diverse opportunities for marginalized people to learn, grow, and rebuild their lives. As Steffen Börms, Vice-Branch Manager of Haspa Berliner Tor, states, the Schulhafen offers a sanctuary where people can forget their problems and engage in creative activities, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience.
The Schulhafen, with its focus on education and self-development, provides a comprehensive suite of services designed for personal growth and learning. Through personalized counseling, vocational training, community integration, and creative and therapeutic activities, the project empowers its visitors to improve their skills, find a sense of belonging, and foster emotional healing.
