The Centre for General Welfare Work (CAW) Limburg today opened its Regiohuis West in the former OCMW building in Beverlo. The building, which had been vacant for several years, is now being given a meaningful purpose. The new base of operations is located at Burgemeester Heymansplein and is strengthened by approximately 17 new employees.
Welfare Councillor Ann-Sofie Vanoverstijns emphasizes the importance of this step for the city of Beringen: “We are pleased that CAW Limburg can further expand its welfare services in our city. It is important for our residents that support is close by and easily accessible. At the same time, as a city, we find it important to give vacant spaces and buildings a meaningful purpose again. This collaboration is therefore a real win-win.”
In the new regional office, residents can turn for all sorts of concerns and for a conversation or targeted advice. The location is easily accessible by public transport, which benefits accessibility for vulnerable or less mobile individuals. Alain Bielen, general director at CAW Limburg, adds: “Welfare work begins for us with meeting and connection. With Regiohuis West, we want to create a place where people feel welcome and can go with all their questions. We look together at what is needed and seek new perspectives. We do this not alone, but in close cooperation with our local partners.”
The collaboration between the city and the CAW is laid down in a loan agreement with a maximum term of five years. It is being investigated how neighbourhood work can be accommodated in the Regiohuis to strengthen cooperation with local partners. In the longer term, the ambition is for CAW Limburg to move to the renovated Lutgartsite in the city centre.
Those in need of a conversation can make an appointment via caw.be or visit on Tuesdays between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. By phone, the CAW is available every working day between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
