Community events held in Deventer and Leiden to combat loneliness and support hospice

In Deventer, the Lichtjestour initiative will offer residents the opportunity to experience the festive city center via bicycle rickshaws. Organized by Deef, the Eén tegen Eenzaamheid coalition, and Fietsen Alle Jaren Deventer, the free tours take place on various evenings between November 30 and December 18. The project aims to provide social engagement and combat loneliness during the holiday season, offering participants a half-hour ride through illuminated streets ending with hot chocolate.

In Leiden, the first Xilent Disco Walk was organized to raise funds for the Xenia youth hospice. Over two hundred participants joined the sold-out event, wearing headphones to dance and sing through the city center. Organizers Femmy Oldenbeuving and Jacqueline Bouts noted that while medical care is funded, the hospice relies on donations to cover operational costs such as groceries and maintenance. The event has already raised over ten thousand euros to help support the facility where seriously ill young people find mutual support.