We are so happy and relieved. The Villa Westerweide walk-in centre in Zaandam will be able to remain open in 2027. This is evident from the budget approved by the Zaandam City Council. This means we can continue to be there for the people who need this place so badly.
Since our walk-in centre opened in 2023, more than 400 people have used De Villa. And in the Zaan region, more than 1,000 people are registered as homeless. So the need is great.
Villa Westerweide in Zaandam
De Villa is a place for connection, warmth, and a listening ear. But it’s also a place for a meal, a shower, clean clothes, help, and guidance. That’s why it’s incredibly important that De Villa remains open. And the more than 1,600 signatures on the petition against its closure show just how many people support this cause. Thank you to everyone who has worked to make this happen and to all the people who care deeply about De Villa.
Below is an interview by De Orkaan with Marijn Pieterse (city council member for the Party for the Animals).