Social affairs - Frank Zander in hospital: but a Christmas for the homeless is planned
For the first time after a three-year break, Frank Zander's (81) big Christmas party for the homeless is to take place again this year at the Estrel Hotel in Berlin. However, it is still unclear whether the initiator will be able to attend on December 22, as Zander is in hospital, as his son confirmed. "He had been very tired and weak for days and practically fell asleep while eating. As it didn't get any better, we called an ambulance yesterday," Marcus Zander told the German Press Agency on Tuesday.
"He is in good hands in hospital. The doctors are turning him upside down and examining him very closely," said Zander. He is hopeful that his father will be able to attend the party at the Estrel Hotel. "And if not, then we will say hello to him," said Zander.
Frank Zander told "B.Z.": "It's a real bummer. I could think of something better than having to go to the clinic before my Christmas party for the needy and homeless. But there was no other way. I was getting weaker and weaker."
The Christmas party is smaller than usual this year. "The wheels have to get rolling again after the break. Around 1600 to 1700 guests can come," said Marcus Zander. At previous celebrations, around 3,000 homeless people were fed and given presents.
Around 130 helpers will be on site again, as well as around 60 celebrities, including the governing mayor Kai Wegner (CDU). "But we're not rolling out a red carpet for the celebrities, they should put on an apron and help," emphasized Zander.
Once again, hairdressers will be on hand to offer free cuts to guests. Vets will look after guests' animals if necessary.
In the Corona years, the Zanders and helpers were out and about with food trucks and handed out free meals on the street. "There were around 3,000 people a year," said Marcus Zander.
This year's Christmas festival is being held for the 29th time. "It's a family celebration - my 22-year-old son Elias is also taking part and will be playing the drums," said Marcus Zander. He is particularly proud that Christmas parties for the homeless are now being organized in many other cities by volunteers, following the Berlin model.
Homeless party
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- Despite being in the hospital, Frank Zander expresses his hope to attend his annual Christmas party for the homeless in Berlin, which is organized by the German Press Agency mentioned as the source of the information.
- Marcus Zander, Frank's son, shares that the Christmas party will have a smaller scale this year with around 1600-1700 guests, compared to the usual 3000, due to the break after three-year hiatus.
- The article mentions that around 130 helpers and 60 celebrities, including the governing mayor Kai Wegner (CDU), will be involved in organizing and serving at the Christmas party to ensure the needs of the homeless are met.
- Alongside the regular assemblage of helpers, vets will be available for the guests with pets, and hairdressers will offer free haircuts to make the event more enjoyable for those in need.
- The tradition of hosting the Christmas party for the homeless in Berlin has become a significant event, inspiring similar celebrations in other cities, demonstrating the impact of Frank Zander's initiative in supporting the vulnerable population at Christmas time.
Source: www.stern.de
