Halle's Senior Council Faces Collapse Without Urgent City Funding
Halle Senior Citizens' Council Warns of Financial Shortfalls: "Our Funds Will Only Last Until the End of the Month"
The Halle Senior Citizens' Council has raised the alarm over looming financial difficulties, with its chair, Manfred Czok, stating: "Our funds will only last until the end of the month." In response, the council has directly appealed to the city's council factions for support.
Its 15 members work entirely on a voluntary basis, without any expense allowance, and have been active for 31 years. "Now, 60 percent of Halle's population falls within the age group our organization represents," Czok emphasizes. The council's work spans key areas of life—housing, care, and even end-of-life issues—giving it a distinct political dimension. "This is about a political body that helps shape Halle's future development," he adds.
Despite careful budgeting, the Senior Citizens' Council now faces significant challenges. "Every possible saving has already been made," the letter to the council factions states. Additional strain comes from outstanding payments from the city and a €1,200 cut in rent subsidies by HWG (Hallesche Wohnungsgesellschaft).
The council warns that further reductions in funding could force cuts to its administrative position, which is already paid at minimum wage. "How can we continue to deliver this extensive work with quality and professionalism under these conditions?" the letter asks.
In an urgent appeal, the Senior Citizens' Council calls on officials to secure the financial foundation of its work, ensuring it can continue to effectively represent the interests of Halle's older residents.