Images: photographer Welmoed Jonker

Enough worries

“They generally grew up in extreme poverty, with parents who were addicts or neglected them. Some of them were even taken into care. As a child they were looked after in the youth welfare system, but once they turn eighteen they’re on their own. These young adults and all the other vulnerable young people eligible for the Bouwdepot already have enough worries.”

“With the Bouwdepot program, for one year they receive a fixed amount from the municipality every month, so that at least they don’t have any financial worries for a while. As part of this we also work with local health and welfare organizations, which mentor the young people during the Bouwdepot year.”

Valuable progress

“During the Bouwdepot year, they get the breathing space they need to put their life in order and work on their future. For example, take a course, work on their health or get their driving license. Opportunities other people get from their parents, but these young people have never had. Research shows that the approach works. After a year, thirty percent of these young people have a paid job and better mental health.”

Rules get in the way

“More and more municipalities want to use the Bouwdepot, but they face obstacles. Because the law says that municipalities aren’t allowed to provide income without something in return. That’s ‘not fair’ we’re sometimes told, but everything these young people have been through isn’t fair either.”

“We are actively lobbying to get the obstacles removed. In 2024 we did this with the ‘Lottery of Life’ at the Dutch House of Representatives. Politicians and passers-by spun the wheel and discovered their privileged position. If you have a roof over your head, a safety net and a stable income, then you’re already holding a winning lottery ticket. The young people the Bouwdepot was set up to help weren’t lucky enough to get that ticket.”

Shine a light

“During lobbying activities and events like this, people often have a light-bulb moment. We see the realization dawning. About the obstacles in the laws and regulations and how valuable a helping hand can be after such a troubled youth. Others didn’t even know that homeless young people existed. I can understand that, it is hard to imagine.”

“Jennifer, a former participant, was also present at the Lottery. The Bouwdepot year helped her to set up her own taxi company. “What, you were homeless?’, some people asked her. It just confirms yet again how important lobbying is, so we can keep shining a light on these young people, who otherwise remain unseen.”