Social Security in Gelsenkirchen – Between Innovation and Tradition

Social Security in Gelsenkirchen – Between Innovation and Tradition

In a city like Gelsenkirchen, historically shaped by industrial structures and social challenges, the topic of social affairs and labor remains a central pillar of municipal policy. The Committee for Social Affairs and Labor met on 04.03.2026 and discussed current initiatives, funding, and concepts – from the introduction of a "donation payment card" to digital access for the homeless.

The controversial debate on the "Donation Payment Card"

One of the most intensely discussed proposals came from Joachim Sombetzki, who suggested introducing a so-called "donation payment card" for the homeless – a model already in use in Lippstadt as the "KIA card." The goal of the card is to channel donated money directly into social support services and avoid conflicts between passersby and beggars.

Although the idea was discussed unanimously in the committee, it ultimately faced rejection. The city of Gelsenkirchen argued that existing support services, such as the Wilhelm-Sternemann-Haus and the Gelsenkirchener Tafel e.V., already covered the needs of the homeless. The proposal was finally rejected by a majority vote, with the AfD faction clearly opposing it.

Digitalization: Opportunity or Dead End?

Another proposal from the session was the introduction of a "Smart Kiosk" in Gelsenkirchen. Inspired by the model in Nuremberg, the kiosk was to offer free internet access, printers, scanners, and social pedagogical counseling. In Gelsenkirchen, initiatives such as the Caritasverband's contact points already exist, which is why the proposal was ultimately deemed superfluous and rejected.

In addition, the Nuremberg Smart Kiosk had already been discontinued in September 2025 for financial reasons. The city of Gelsenkirchen therefore saw no need to initiate a similar project—at least not in March 2026.

Strengthening Existing Structures: The Role of the Food Bank and Other Initiatives

In the discussion on social security, the Gelsenkirchener Tafel e.V. also came into play. The food bank has been a central actor in the field of emergency social assistance for 25 years and supports more than 600 families annually with food supplies. Currently, the Tafel is supported by 90% through a part-time employee for volunteer management, funded by the city.

Other projects, such as the "Tafelgarten Gelsenkirchen" or the "BuS-Mobil" in cooperation with BOGESTRA, show how Gelsenkirchen is trying to create long-term solutions for social problems. The city also supports projects such as the "Girls & Boys Academy" and "Junge Visionäre" to integrate young people into the labor market.

Community Work: Social Integration in Challenged Neighborhoods

Another important topic was the continuation of social community work in the districts of Bulmke-Hüllen and Schalke. The city supports the initiative Alfred-Zingler-Haus e.V. and the Amigonianer Soziale Werke e.V. with a total of 90,000 euros per year. These projects offer low-threshold services such as neighborhood cafés, bicycle workshops, and educational offers for children and youth.

The goal is clear: to strengthen social integration, cohesion, and participation. The funding is limited to the years 2026–2028 and builds on previous measures. The administration is required to plan the funds in the budget and to review annual usage reports.

Challenges in the Integration of Refugees

Special attention was also given to the integration of refugees. The model project for work opportunities (AGH) has been expanded since early 2024 in cooperation with GELSENDIENSTE. The number of places increased from 10 to 30. However, the occupancy rate remained at about 53% below expectations – mainly due to language barriers and a lack of motivation.

To address this, Gelsenkirchen is planning a qualification program for low-threshold language acquisition in cooperation with the Caritasverband. The goal is to enable successful integration into work processes despite linguistic diversity (up to 9 different mother tongues).

Conclusion: Stability Through Structures

Social policy in Gelsenkirchen in March 2026 is characterized by a balance between innovation and the preservation of existing structures. While some initiatives such as the donation payment card or the Smart Kiosk were rejected, the city relies on proven models such as community work, food banks, and AGH projects. The challenges remain great: homelessness, rent arrears, unemployment, and the integration of refugees continue to test the city's limits. Yet with a consistent focus on social participation and cooperative structures, Gelsenkirchen demonstrates that solutions are possible even in difficult times.