It is estimated that there are more than 2000 homeless people in Brussels and about 17 000 in Belgium. However, the number could be much higher in reality as many homeless are not accounted for. Even though Brussels municipalities have increased the available shelters for homeless, especially with the large influx of refugees arriving recently, it is predicted that these shelters only cover six percent of the total need.
While decision makers discuss how to share refugee budget allocations, the Embassy of Indonesia’s Women Association, initiated a food serving amongst Brussels homeless and refugees.
On 6 December, members from the Embassy’s association went to their local church to serve the Indonesian specialty of chicken satay and nasi goreng to more than 50 homeless people, most of whom are refugees and asylum seekers. They were combining efforts with the NGOs Armée du Salut and volunteers from “Serve the City”. Initiated by Mrs Sandra Thamrin, chairwomen of the Embassy’s Women Association and wife of Indonesia’s ambassador to Belgium she commented that “this activity is about sharing and sharing doesn’t see which race, religion, or nationality one comes from”.
Mike Stannet from Armée du Salut very much appreciated the initiative. He said that every Tuesday his church opens its doors for homeless people. “We open early at 10 am for coffee and then continue with lunch. Usually, we serve sandwiches or warm soups during the cold winter. But today is an exception. It is very special,” he added. Kathy, project manager from Serve the City also praised the efforts carried out by the Embassy’s women association. “Today’s cuisine has been the most delicious one of the year”, she said.
The Brussels Times
