Buddy family

Many newcomers want long-term contact with the Dutch, but do not have this. Causes are, for example, the lack of knowledge of the Dutch language, unfamiliarity with other applicable norms and customs, and unfamiliarity with the other among both the newcomers and the Dutch.

It is especially difficult for refugee women with (small) children. Because of the care for their offspring, they have fewer opportunities to be active outdoors and to meet people. This is especially true for single-parent families.

In order to establish contact between the newcomers and rooted Utrecht residents, Welkom in Utrecht links refugee families to Utrecht families.

Buddy families undertake activities together such as visiting a petting zoo, playing games or having coffee and eating together. This way they have a good time together and learn more from each other. It helps the newcomers to feel at home and gives the opportunity for special friendships between both the parents and the children.

The buddy families project is suitable for anyone who is open to new people and experiences and who has or wants to make time for it. The required time investment is not fixed. For example, think of a meeting / activity every two weeks. That can be with the whole family, but also a part of it.