On Thursday, October 29th, Alderman Arthur Boone, Peter van der Meijden (chair of the Doesburg Learning Fund), and Ward Terpstra (Local Contact for the Youth Fund for Sports & Culture) formalized their partnership with Sam&Doesburg. Matthijs de Jager (Children's Mayor) was present on behalf of all children in the municipality of Doesburg. Sam&Doesburg makes it easier for children and young people growing up in poverty to apply for financial support.

What is Sam&?

Sam& is a partnership between Leergeld Nederland, the Youth Fund for Sport & Culture, the Jarige Job Foundation, and the National Fund for Children's Aid. Through the platform www.samenvoorallekinderen.nl, parents and intermediaries can now easily apply for one or more services in one go. The Municipality of Doesburg supports this partnership. Alderman Arthur Boone: "We also see families living in poverty in Doesburg. Having a bicycle, participating in school activities, or playing soccer—it's not something every child can take for granted. Sam& is a great addition to the existing poverty programs. Together, we're committed to helping all young people aged 0-21. If there's no money for dance lessons, volleyball, a birthday, or school supplies, Sam&Doesburg can help!"

Together for all children

In the Netherlands, an average of one in twelve children and young people grows up in a family that can barely make ends meet financially. That's an average of two children per class. And during the current coronavirus pandemic, that number is only growing. Something that seems perfectly normal to the outside world, like celebrating a birthday with friends or a family outing, is simply not possible for these children without support. Children's Mayor Matthijs: "I'm fortunate that my parents can afford everything, but I think it's important to raise the topic of 'poverty' among young people. Because I want every child to be able to do the things they enjoy!"

Lower the threshold

The big advantage of Sam& is that, as a parent, you can more easily apply for one or more services and for one or more children. Peter van der Meijden: “By combining the existing services, parents no longer have to go to different organizations. And that's great, because it's often quite difficult for parents to ask for help. Also, because things can sometimes be connected: you can get your sports membership reimbursed, but if you don't have a bike to ride to the field, you still have a problem. I'm therefore very pleased with the close collaboration between the parties. Together we are strong and we can help even more children growing up in poverty!”