His Majesty the King will visit the Interchurch Diaconal Consultation (IDO) in Lelystad on Tuesday, October 28. The foundation is dedicated to residents facing issues due to poverty, debts, or mental difficulties, who often do not know how to find the right support. The IDOs drop-in centers and consultation hours offer a listening ear, practical help, and guidance in referrals to services such as food banks, debt assistance, and emergency aid.
The visit will start at the Almost Free Store of one of the drop-in centers where customers can buy second-hand clothing. Following this, the King will visit the sorting center where volunteers sort through donated clothing, shoes, and accessories. After that, King Willem-Alexander will visit the bicycle repairman of the drop-in center, who helps people who cannot repair their bicycles themselves or are daunted by the cost of repairs. Volunteers in the kitchen will then discuss the meals they prepare for visitors at lunchtime. The King will join the meal, and guests will share what communal dining means to them. The Kings visit will conclude with two roundtable discussions. Initiators, board members, staff, and partners of IDO will explain the origins of the drop-in centers, future plans, and the challenges faced by the organization. Afterward, participants and volunteers will share their experiences and the impact of IDOs assistance.
The IDO has been active in Lelystad for over 25 years and began as an initiative of eight local churches. The foundations mission is Helping those who have no helper and focuses on people who are often overlooked and distanced from assistance. The IDO has two hundred volunteers and a small team of paid staff. The IDO has participated in the Orange Fund programs Participate, Together Out of Poverty and Difference Makers Young and receives funding for various projects from the Orange Fund.
RVD, no. 282
