East Groningen residents leave tens of thousands of euros behind. Livability counter too unknown, especially in Veendam and Pekela

“It is striking that there are relatively few or no applications from East Groningen. That’s a shame,” says Hielke Westra. He is director of the Association of Groninger Villages (VGD). The VGD is the umbrella organization for village interest groups, community and village centers and other residents’ initiatives in the province.

The Livability Desk is housed there. This is open to all residents of the province of Groningen. A maximum of 10,000 euros can be requested per project. It is a subsidy scheme for smaller, joint plans of residents that is used to increase the quality of life in villages, districts, neighborhoods and streets.

This could be anything: from new play equipment in a playground, the interior of a community center or youth center to the construction of a walking route. The money comes from a pot of the Groningen National Program. The scheme will continue for at least another four years.

Zero applications from Veendam and Pekela

Last year 186 applications were received. “East Groningen is lagging behind in terms of number with 24 applications.” Nothing was even received from Veendam and Pekela. “What is the explanation for that? Say it. Maybe we are too invisible. We are going to do something about that this year.”

To explain what the counter stands for, there will soon be accessible consultation hours in the libraries in Veendam and Pekela.

“We provide practical assistance and help people with their applications. We know from experience that people find it quite difficult to put their ideas on paper and develop them. We help with going through formal documents, drawing up a balanced budget and finding additional funds or subsidies,” says Westra.

Westra: “What can you do on your own, what do you need extra help with? We also let applicants honestly know when an application has no chance, so that they do not waste time on it.”