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South Holland | May 6, 2025

A small request made a big difference for Marleen and Chris

Marleen Veldhoven from Schiedam has been volunteering at the local clothing bank for nine years. There, she sees every day how families struggle to make ends meet. She also faced this reality at home. Her "bonus son," Chris (16), wanted to join the gym, but they didn't have enough money at the time. An application to the Youth Sports & Culture Fund made it possible. And now Chris is healthier and happier than ever.

He really wanted to work out

Marleen found the Youth Fund for her step-son, Chris (16). "He really wanted to work out, but we simply couldn't afford it at the time." She applied to the Youth Fund, and Chris has been enjoying working out for two years now. "He feels fitter and is more comfortable in his own skin. His whole lifestyle has changed! He used to love sweets and energy drinks, but now he really pays attention to his diet. Instead of just hanging around, he now goes to the gym three to four times a week."

Don't feel ashamed

Perhaps what Marleen finds most beautiful is that Chris has never felt 'different'. "There's no shame. No one there realizes he's playing sports through the Youth Fund, and they don't need to. He's just part of it. That's what it's all about." For Marleen, applying for help wasn't a difficult decision. "I didn't feel any shame. Why should I? You do it for your child. You give him something that makes him happy, that makes him healthier."

Yet she notices that not everyone around her feels the same way. "Some parents are ashamed. Often, their pride gets in the way. And then I say: put that pride aside. Really, give it to your child. If necessary, get a friend to help you submit an application."

A fund that really makes a difference

Marleen is happy that the Youth Fund for Sports & Culture is available in the municipality of Schiedam. "It's so important that it continues to exist. I see it with friends in my neighborhood too: their children are involved in dance or soccer—all through the Youth Fund. It really makes a difference."