Poverty and criminality are two subjects that are frequently lumped together, albeit unfairly, argues the Stëmm vun der Strooss charity. With ongoing discussions regarding the issue of security at the Ettelbruck train station, where many people say they feel unsafe at night, some have argued that the Stëmm vun der Strooss restaurant attracts a “problematic” clientele.
The charity, which supports the homeless and others on low income, has had a presence in the area for the past two years. But in that short period, the number of people relying on their services have exploded. The small social restaurant can accommodate around 25 people for its low-priced meals, but there have been days when the facility has distributed 140–170 meals, says Stëmm vun der Strooss president André Duebbers.
But who are the people taking them up on the offer?
“Naturally we can’t identify people. They don’t have tattoos on their foreheads saying if they’re drug addicts or dealers. We welcome anyone who needs help, who needs a hot meal, and we don’t discriminate. As for the rest, it isn’t really our problem or our job to manage the local drug scene.”
Duebbers says the charity is aware of issues in the area, but points out the restaurant is only open between midday and 3pm, and that diners are not permitted to drink alcohol or consume drugs on the premises.
As for the premises, it is not clear how matters will proceed. There are ongoing discussions proposing work with smaller ones in future, to make them less visible to the general public and thereby create fewer issues in terms of acceptance.
Ettelbruck Mayor Bob Steichen supports these proposals: “We have to take stock and see where it takes us in the future. In terms of expanding here in Ettelbruck, we as a municipal council need to see if it makes sense or not, especially as we are not proprietors here. We’d prefer if these services could be decentralised throughout the country instead of focusing on three or four places.”
Despite this, the mayor underlines the importance of the work carried out by Stëmm vun der Strooss. Although there can be negative repercussions from time to time, the Ettelbruck council declared it was not against social services and help for those in need.
