Moers is committed to sustainable youth policy – What changed in February 2026

Youth policy in Moers: Decisions and implementation in February 2026

In February 2026, the city of Moers set important directions for the future of youth policy. The Youth Welfare Committee discussed the budget planning, changes in providers, childcare offerings, and project funding in its second meeting. The decisions show a clear focus on sustainability, inclusion, and financial fairness. Below is an analysis of the key points.

2026 Budget Plan: More transparency in funding

The 2026 budget plan for youth and childcare facilities was discussed in February. A central point was the revision of the regulation for collecting parental contributions. With the introduction of the parity model, the income of both parents will be taken into account in the future. This enables a fairer funding system, particularly in families where both partners work.

In addition, a hardship fund for parents who are not entitled to benefits has been planned. This shows that Moers is not only relying on clear structures but also on social responsibility.

Provider change: New perspectives for daycare centers

Another highlight was the decision regarding the change of providers at several daycare centers. The Evangelical daycare center on Gerhart-Hauptmann-Straße is transitioning to the Bethanien-Diakonissen-Stiftung (Bethanien Diakonissen Foundation). This change not only brings financial advantages but also the opportunity to introduce new educational concepts and structures.

In addition, the city benefits from savings due to the change. For example, the daycare center on Kranichstraße is saving 55,562.89 euros through the new provider. The city of Moers supports the transition with a voluntary grant of 4.3 percent, demonstrating that it is actively accompanying the process.

Childcare offerings: Expansion of the full-day school

The Open Full-Day School (OGS) will be expanded to 2,450 places starting in the school year 2026/2027. This is a clear response to the increasing demand for childcare outside regular school hours. At the same time, the city plans to reduce the number of childcare places in the Ü3 sector by 62, as the demand is declining. This adjustment process is necessary to distribute resources efficiently.

Democratic education and youth projects

Moers is also increasingly focusing on projects that strengthen democracy and social skills. The working group "Strengthening Democracy in Moers" supported 12 projects with a total of 17,269.50 euros. One example is the "Story Coaches" project at the Anne-Frank-Gesamtschule, which promotes reading skills and social abilities.

Another project, "Diversity connects – Encounter Days," aims at promoting tolerance and intercultural encounters. Such initiatives show how Moers is actively shaping the future of youth – not only through childcare but also through education and participation.

Outlook: Solid foundations for the future

The decisions made by the Youth Welfare Committee in February 2026 provide a solid foundation for youth policy in Moers. They show that the city is responding to changes while at the same time relying on long-term planning.

Particularly important is the combination of financial security, educational quality, and social inclusion. With the expansion of the full-day school, the support of democratic projects, and the adjustment of childcare offerings, Moers has embarked on a sustainable course.

The coming months will show how these measures prove in practice – but one thing is clear: Moers is investing in the future of its youth.