Supporting Families with Disabled Children

Life isn´t always fair. Parents of children with disabilities can tell a tale.

But laws are fair, aren´t they? Shouldn`t laws help the weak and support the disadvantaged people? In fact, that´s often a tale.

One day at “Der neue Kupferhof” costs approximately € 500 for one child with disabilities to cover all expenses.

In general, the parents do not incur any costs for the care of the guest child, up to the age of 18,thanks to a performance agreement between “Hände für Kinder” and the City of Hamburg. These costs are covered by welfare agencies and care insurance funds, primarily the integration assistance. Most of the other municipalities largely accept this agreement and that is why children from all over Germany can visit “Den neuen Kupferhof”. 

But what happens after these kids turn 18? Children with disabilities aren´t cured only because they are considered to be adult according to the law. The level of nursing care does not decrease for parents of children with disabilities because their children turned 18. But the financial support decreases. 

As a kindness for parents whose children have already been with us and who are now 18 years old and whose circumstances have not changed (who still live at their parent´s), “Der neue Kupferhof” welcomes young adults up to 23 years. 14 days a year “Der neue Kupferhof” is occupied only by young adults and some of their parents. While the grateful parents relax and recharge their batteries for the time afterwards, the young adults enjoy the time among their peers with a daily program adapted to their age. In general, the daily routine is the same, but e.g. they can sleep in longer and stay up longer. Everything is tailored to their interests and age, from activities, music, games to movie night and beverages. 

Depending on demand the young adults can stay up to 14 days. This year we had so many requests, that none of these over 18 guests can stay longer than 8 days. Funding for these “over 18 days” comes entirely from donations. 

The request increases every year, because also children with disabilities grow up and turn 18. It is nice to see our special guests grow up. One the other hand it saddens not to be able to welcome them after reaching majority. Unless you support us with your donation.

Therefor the GlobalGiving donations from February and March will only be used for the “over 18 weeks”.

Thank you for your support and stay healthy.