In Frankfurt, too, the war in Ukraine has been the defining issue of recent days, causing consternation but also an enormous wave of willingness to help. Many are now asking themselves: How can I help, what can I do? Here now five answers to important questions about the impact of the Ukraine crisis on Frankfurt.
I want to help - how do I do that best?
The city coordinates the platform www.frankfurt-hilft.de and has switched two email addresses for people who want to help. Those who want to offer housing can email wohnraum@frankfurt-hilft.de; those who want to volunteer can email ukraine@frankfurt-hilft.de to register. The staff there will take up the offer and get back to you.
Does the city collect donations in kind for people in Ukraine?
The people from Ukraine who have fled to Frankfurt are supplied here with everything they need. There is no shortage. Therefore, at the moment the city does not need donations in kind for the people in Frankfurt. If that changes, current requests are on the website www.frankfurt-hilft.de. Donations in kind for people in Ukraine or neighboring countries are collected by various aid organizations and associations and brought there.
How is Frankfurt preparing for refugees from Ukraine?
There are close agreements between the various offices and departments under the leadership of the social department and the city is preparing for different scenarios in view of the unclear situation. The emergency services and the voluntary welfare organizations are also on board. All parties involved coordinate regularly and the city can react quickly to a changing situation.
How many refugees are already in Frankfurt and how many could come?
Since the beginning of the week, isolated refugees from Ukraine come to Frankfurt. But the situation is very dynamic and can change quickly. If people cannot find accommodation with family or friends, or need further help, the city takes care of their livelihood and accommodation. Estimates of how many people from Ukraine might come to Frankfurt and when are very difficult. Even the state and federal governments do not have accurate forecasts.
What is the status of people in Frankfurt?
This is still unclear, the city has no information yet from the state and federal government. "I will not turn anyone away in Frankfurt or refuse help because of an unclear legal situation," says the head of social affairs. "We have quickly and unbureaucratically created a Frankfurt solution - we equip people transitionally with an emergency health certificate and secure their livelihood through foundation funds."[
