The children’s shelter Zauberwald of the Diakonisches Werk des Evang.-Luth. Dekanatsbezirks Rosenheim e.V. has been providing children between the ages of six and twelve with a secure place for many years. Children who are exposed to urgent danger, who report themselves to the police or another agency and seek protection, or who enter Germany unaccompanied and are in this country without a (legal) guardian, find a place of safety in the Zauberwald shelter. Here, the boys and girls are cared for around the clock by trained professionals such as social workers, educators, and psychologists. In a regulated daily routine, the children receive initial and everyday care in line with their needs and, in addition to guidance for school, apprenticeship and leisure, they also receive psychological support. Above all, the children find comfort in the shelter and are able to gain distance from the often threatening situations that otherwise determine their everyday lives. In the large, remote house with garden in a quiet location in the south of Munich, the children can recharge their batteries. The aim of the temporary protective measures is to return the children to their families of origin, if possible, or to place them with a trusted person, another relative or a suitable institution – of course, taking into account the best interests of the child.

If the situation allows it, there is the possibility for a visit of the parents on Sundays. However, due to the acute risk of infection caused by the Corona pandemic, parents are not allowed to enter the house. In order to still allow the children to interact with their parents in a safe and pleasant environment, new patio furniture such as garden chairs and tables are urgently needed. The purchase of a patio heater is also important for longer outdoor conversations in cooler weather.

The Regine Sixt Children's Aid Foundation has been supporting the children’s shelter Zauberwald for many years. You too can help and give the children and their families the opportunity to come together in a pleasant environment.