Kurt Fischer enthusiastic about helpers for healthy families in Barnim!

Kurt Fischer enthusiastic about helpers for healthy families in Barnim!

In Eberswalde, the Healthy Children Barnim Nord network, led by Kurt Fischer, the general secretary of the SPD Brandenburg and chairman of the SPD Barnim, has taken an important step in supporting young families. During his most recent visit, Fischer discovered that not only is the commitment of the volunteer family sponsors impressive, but also the variety of offers that are available to families free of charge. The network was founded in 2006, and in 2024 the project will celebrate its remarkable 20th anniversary. It is part of a wide-ranging system that is active at a total of 21 locations throughout Brandenburg.

The main goal of the network is to promote the healthy development of children up to the age of three. There are 39 dedicated family sponsors who support families from birth onwards. This support includes not only the exchange of experiences, but also valuable information about local offers that are tailored precisely to the needs of young parents. In addition to ongoing support, families can take part in courses and information events. A special highlight of the year is a joint celebration that is organized for all families and offers an opportunity for exchange and community.

Diverse offers for families

The range of support extends from breastfeeding advice to changing instructions to first aid courses for infants. Fischer was pleased with how comprehensive the network's offerings are, which is based at the GLG Werner Forßmann Clinic and holds events at the meeting and further education center in the Westend district. The coordinating employees ensure that the sponsors receive the best possible training and establish the necessary contacts between families and local partners. Families also receive a comprehensive family handbook that accompanies them in the first years of their child's life.

A central concern of the network is also to strengthen family-friendliness in Brandenburg. Through close cooperation with other institutions, we try to make it easier for families to find their way around pregnancy, birth and early childhood development. The network creates an environment that not only provides information but also promotes exchange between families and professionals. The pressure that many families are exposed to in terms of education, upbringing and work-life balance is becoming increasingly noticeable.

Strong together for the future

The Brandenburg Family Forum has established itself as a platform to enable direct discussions between families and members of the state parliament. This should help to bring the concerns of families more into the focus of politics and to find solutions to the challenges that parents face. Many families struggle with the various stresses of everyday life, which is why it is important to provide practical support.

The Healthy Children Network is supported by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the State of Brandenburg and is a living example of a committed family policy. Anyone who is interested in getting involved or looking for support can contact us at any time by calling 03334 69-2393. A new sponsorship training starts in February 2026, and all those who have a good knack for supporting young families are warmly welcome.