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Tree feller Franz Stenmans: donated 3 tons of potatoes to the Cologne food bank!
Franz Stenmans from Rodenkirchen donates 3 tons of potatoes to the Cologne food bank to support people in need.
Tree feller Franz Stenmans: donated 3 tons of potatoes to the Cologne food bank!
A truly generous commitment has caused a stir in Cologne: Franz Stenmans, an experienced tree feller and gardener, recently donated three tons of potatoes to the Cologne food bank. The strong tubers of the “Celina” variety come from a farmer in Stenden and were purchased with tips from his employees. The 62-year-old, who is affectionately known by his friends as the “quiet helper,” is sending a strong signal of solidarity with this gesture.
Rechtsrheinische Rundschau reports on Stenmans' idea of initially distributing the potatoes on Wilhelmplatz in Nippes. However, he had to reschedule due to a city fee. Instead, he turned to the Kölner Tafel, which supports more than 15,000 people in need in Cologne.
The Kölner Tafel is known for collecting unsold but edible food and passing it on to social institutions. Their wide range of target groups includes food distribution points, schools, kindergartens and emergency shelters. The helpful volunteers have been helping those in need since 1995, but the organizers are currently experiencing an acute shortage of volunteers.
The importance of volunteer work
Markus Voss from the Kölner Tafel emphasizes how important private initiatives like Stenmans' are in the current times when prices are rising and many people need help. The donated potatoes were packed in practical 25 kilo bags, making further distribution to the facilities easier. The Tafel welcomes any support, be it through donations or volunteer work.
We are currently looking for volunteers who can support in various areas, such as driving to pick up groceries or at the distribution points in various parts of the city. Cyclists are also needed to offer a delivery service for people with limited mobility. Those interested can get involved in a federal voluntary service and thus make a valuable contribution. More information about this can be found on the City of Cologne website.
Franz Stenmans' large-scale potato donation is an example of how community effort and commitment can strengthen local communities. At a time when many people need support, such actions show that everyone can make a difference. The Kölner Tafel will now pass on the potatoes to people in need and social institutions, thereby offering hope and help.