Otto Hahn Gymnasium Students Rally for Children in Poverty
Seventh-graders raise €4,000 for children in poverty through community projects
On February 5, 2026, seventh-grade students at Otto Hahn Gymnasium took part in a special project day under the motto "Together. For Each Other." The initiative saw them engage in social action while raising funds for the Sterntaler Fund, a program run by Caritas RheinBerg to support children living in poverty.
Instead of their usual classroom lessons, the students spread out across the community, lending a hand in kindergartens, after-school care programs, and neighborhood projects. Some worked on farms, while others collected litter in the area. Many groups also organized creative fundraising drives, baking and selling cakes, waffles, cookies, and homemade goods in exchange for voluntary donations—both at school and in nearby areas like Refrath.
By the end of the day, their efforts had yielded an impressive total: over €4,000. The funds were passed on to the Sterntaler Fund by their teachers. The initiative, part of Caritas, helps children affected by poverty, covering costs for sports clubs, school supplies, or clothing. Sometimes, the fund makes smaller but meaningful experiences possible—like attending a friend's birthday party or a trip to the cinema.
For many students, the day was more than just a break from routine—it was a deeply rewarding experience. Beyond the act of helping, they took pride in making a tangible difference together. One student shared, "I really enjoyed the day, but it also felt good knowing I was helping children in need and doing something meaningful." Others echoed the sentiment: "It was a nice change from school, and it was great to know we were supporting kids who don't have as much." Two students who volunteered with the local regulatory office added, "We had so much fun! We learned self-defense techniques and got a real sense of what the work involves."
The day demonstrated the power of collective action—how small contributions can add up to make a big impact. For the students, it wasn't just a successful project; it was a powerful example of what "Together. For Each Other." truly means.
