Hamburg, December 11 – The number of Hamburg children receiving free breakfast at school has more than doubled in the last ten years. Currently, over 30 ‘Frühstücksclubs’ operate across the city, predominantly in elementary schools located in less prosperous areas, addressing the critical need for a nutritious start to the day for many students.
Growing Demand for Free School Breakfasts
A significant number of Hamburg children begin their school day on an empty stomach, hindering their ability to concentrate and learn effectively. To combat this issue, ‘Frühstücksclubs’ provide free breakfasts to these children. The majority of these clubs are run by the association ‘Brotzeit e.V.’, supported by more than 200 dedicated volunteers.
In the last school year alone, these clubs in Hamburg distributed over 250,000 free breakfasts. This figure represents a substantial increase from ten years ago, when approximately 120,000 breakfasts were provided. The number of participating elementary schools has also grown from 21 to 32, and the demand continues to rise.
Reasons Behind the Increased Need
The ‘Brotzeit e.V.’ association attributes the growing need to several factors, including poverty, domestic issues, or parents working early morning hours. However, the children are not questioned about the reasons for not receiving breakfast at home. The meals are funded through donations, supplemented by an annual contribution of approximately 250,000 euros from the school authorities.
Expansion and Volunteer Recruitment
Looking ahead, ‘Brotzeit e.V.’ plans to open three additional clubs next year, including one at Friedrich-Frank Elementary School in Bergedorf. The establishment of further clubs is contingent on the availability of sufficient volunteers and suitable premises, according to school authorities. The association is actively seeking volunteers aged 55 and older. Schools can apply for membership with ‘Brotzeit e.V.’ if a significant number of children regularly arrive without breakfast.
The expansion of these breakfast clubs underscores a broader societal effort to support children’s well-being and educational success by ensuring they have access to essential nutrition, regardless of their home circumstances.
