Essen 'Brotzeit' program seeks volunteers to provide free school breakfasts

The volunteer‑run charity ‘Brotzeit’ in Essen provides a free morning meal to roughly 1,100 schoolchildren across 24 primary and special schools. The project, founded by actress Uschi Glas in 2020, relies on senior volunteers (typically aged 55+) who help prepare a breakfast buffet for 45‑80 children per school, receiving a €7 hourly allowance.

The organisation now seeks additional helpers for schools in the Essen districts of Katernberg, Altenessen and Bocholt. Food donations come from the discount chain Lidl and the North‑Rhine Westphalia education ministry supports the initiative. As one volunteer put it, “Das ist wie im Paradies.” The programme aims to combat child hunger and improve concentration by ensuring children start the day with a nutritious meal.

Interested participants can contact volunteer coordinator Ulrike Grundmann at 0173 64034.