May recap: creating connection in uncertain times

Ter Apel: responding to a growing humanitarian concern

The situation in Ter Apel continues to deteriorate, bringing back memories of the 2022 crisis, where People for People was actively involved in distributing more than 700 emergency aid packages and serving as a coordination point for volunteers and support initiatives.

At the time of writing, around 130 people are once again staying outside the registration centre, uncertain whether they will receive temporary shelter or a bed for the night. Numbers are expected to rise in the coming days, while it remains unclear what emergency accommodation will become available.

People for People is currently present on the ground with translators and volunteers, offering a listening ear, distributing relief supplies and supporting where needed. We remain in close contact with the people affected, local volunteers, NGOs and other stakeholders. Our bus has been loaded with emergency supplies, and we continue to monitor needs as they emerge.

Situations like these can change quickly. By staying close to local realities and existing support structures, we can help mobilise resources where they are needed most.

Brievenbus vol Liefde: making small actions possible

This month, together with Young Impact, we launched the Brievenbus vol Liefde: a simple way for people to send messages of support to children affected by crises.

At a time when what is happening in the world can often feel overwhelming, initiatives like these remind us that small acts of kindness still matter. Sometimes, making a difference starts with something as simple as taking a moment to write a card.

For children living through conflict or displacement, everyday things like school, safety and routine are often uncertain. A handwritten card cannot change that reality, but it can remind them that someone is thinking of them.

Launching on Bevrijdingsdag

We officially launched the Brievenbus vol Liefde during Bevrijdingsdag in The Hague (Den Haag), where we invited visitors to write messages of hope and encouragement for children in crisis situations.

Hundreds of cards were written throughout the day. What stood out most was how many people wanted to help, but simply needed a practical way to do so.

The first cards will soon be delivered to various asylum seeker centres (AZCs) in the Netherlands and through our local partner organisations in crisis-affected communities worldwide, while the mailbox continues its journey across the country.

You can listen to the radio item on Den Haag FM below [from 40m11s].

Community activities

Following the launch of the Social Sport Hub at the COA Galaxy Amsterdam in April, we returned this month for a second People for People Day focused on pottery.

Residents continued projects they had started earlier while spending time together in a relaxed and creative setting. While simple in nature, activities like these help create connection, routine and a sense of belonging.

The pottery session also created space for quieter, more personal conversations. Sitting together around the table in small groups, residents opened up about some of the challenges and difficulties they are facing. In that sense, the activity became more than just a creative workshop: it offered connection, a listening ear and a safe space to share experiences.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, it was a reminder that wellbeing is often strengthened through community and shared experiences.

Partnerships: strengthening the network

This month, we strengthened both existing and new collaborations. Together, we’re creating more ways for people and businesses to contribute, from volunteering opportunities to practical support initiatives.

Behind the scenes, we also continued mobilising donations through our network and warehouse, helping ensure resources reach the organisations and communities that need them most.

Welcoming our new Senior Project Manager & Partnerships Lead

We’re also excited to welcome Ingrid Lamme as our new Senior Project Manager & Partnerships Lead. As our network continues to grow, strong relationships remain key to turning resources, expertise and goodwill into impact.

Looking ahead

As we move into June, several initiatives continue to develop.

In Ter Apel, we remain closely involved on the ground, monitoring the situation and supporting where needs emerge. At the same time, the Brievenbus vol Liefde will continue travelling across the Netherlands, collecting messages that will soon reach children in crisis situations.

We’re also looking forward to Young Impact Day at AFAS, where People for People will host the next stop of the Brievenbus vol Liefde. Together with more than 6,000 young people, we aim to turn small acts of kindness into meaningful support by encouraging participants to write cards for people affected by crisis and displacement.

Alongside this, several logistics and partnership initiatives are continuing to take shape behind the scenes, including developments in Syria and Lebanon that we look forward to sharing more about in the coming months.