The City of is stopping subsidies for the Omadienst service starting in 2027, ending an annual 20,000 euro grant. Managed by the Catholic Family Association since 1973, the program connects families with grandmothers to provide essential childcare.
Education Councilor Bettina Emmerling's office stated funding will end due to a reform in elementary pedagogy. The city aims to focus on the core mission of kindergartens. Head Andrea Beer warns the service cannot exist after January 2027 without support.
The Omadienst currently faces high demand and is not accepting new requests. Deputy chairman Christopher Erben notes the service is vital for care during illness or off-hours. A similar 2016 funding cut was reversed by the mayor after public criticism.