The street outreach workers of Aalst City have been active in the city for 20 years, seeking out individuals who find it difficult to connect with regular aid services. They build relationships based on proximity and trust, being present and approachable on the streets, in station areas, on squares, and other gathering places.
The stories featured in the new podcast, titled 'Iedereen Vertelt Mee' (Everyone Tells Along), highlight the importance of continuously seeing people, listening to them, and giving their stories space. Each episode lasts approximately fifteen minutes and is available for free listening on Spotify.
The first episode, 'The Stories Behind Homelessness', focuses on the experiences of Ronny, Sam, and two sisters who are homeless. They spend their days on benches along the Dender river and seek places to sleep at night in squats, emergency shelters, or on the streets.
