Frequently asked questions Ukraine
Ukrainian refugees in the municipality of Aalten
Why are refugees coming to our municipality?
Russian troops invaded Ukraine on February 24. Attacks are being carried out in areas where many civilians live. People are fleeing the violence. Ukrainian refugees are arriving in various places across the country.
The cabinet has therefore instructed the Safety Regions to provide 1,000 shelter places within two weeks, supplemented by another thousand in the slightly longer term. The municipality of Aalten considers it important to help these people.
How many refugees are coming to our municipality?
That's hard to say. We can't predict this, but we're currently expecting around 100 people.
Where are the refugees being accommodated?
In our municipality, private individuals and companies have made living space available for Ukrainian refugees. There are also several host families who are taking people into their homes.
We expect to be able to announce a few more shelters shortly.
Can the municipality assist with emergency shelter?
Are you in contact with someone from Ukraine who does not have a place to sleep and therefore needs emergency shelter at this moment? Please contact us: goo@aalten.nl
I have living space available. I would like to take in refugees in my home. Where can I register?
You can register as a host family with the municipality: goo@aalten.nl.
There are also national organizations that mediate between refugees and host families, such as Takecarebnb.
How long will the refugees stay?
That depends on developments in Ukraine. Residents of Ukraine can enter the Netherlands with or without a visa, thanks to the association agreement that the EU concluded with Ukraine in 2017. Refugees can stay here for a period of 90 days, with the possibility of a simple extension to 180 days.
Do Ukrainian refugees receive support from the municipality?
The municipality, as well as other designated agencies, provide housing and other necessities for people. When refugees from Ukraine register with our municipality, we try to place them with host families. For other provisions, such as necessary care products, clothing, shoes, and Health , we Health set up a structure in which organizations such as the Dutch Council for Refugees, Diaconal Aid, and the Aalten Challenge play an important role.
For Ukrainian refugees in our municipality, there is a weekly 'walk-in' session, which is also supported by Vluchtelingenwerk Aalten (Refugee Work Aalten). In Aalten, this is on Mondays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at De Dam, Damstraat . In Dinxperlo, this is on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Kulturhus, Maurits Prinsstraat .
I have family or friends in Ukraine. Can we take them in?
Yes, you may. We would like to know this so that we can provide the right support. Please report this to the municipality via goo@aalten.nl so that we can keep track of it.
What do we notice about the refugees?
The refugees will be living in our community temporarily. You will encounter them in your daily life. On the street, in the supermarket, perhaps at the sports field, and at school. We hope that everyone in our community will welcome these people warmly and help them where necessary. No one asked for this situation. Especially not the refugees themselves.
Do refugees have priority when it comes to housing?
At present, Ukrainians do not have priority for housing in the Netherlands. The Ukrainians who are arriving now are essentially guests. The municipality is looking for accommodation for them. Many private individuals are offering accommodation for this purpose. They are not being allocated houses.
Are refugees allowed to work in the Netherlands?
Yes, Ukrainian refugees are allowed to work in the Netherlands. The following requirements apply Requirements.
Is a refugee from Ukraine entitled to financial support from the Dutch government?
Refugees from Ukraine receive living expenses. More information can be found on the website of the Rijksoverheid. Laborijn will implement the living allowance scheme for the municipality of Aalten as of May 1, 2022.
Can refugees from Ukraine register in the municipality of Aalten?
Yes. Refugees from Ukraine with Ukrainian nationality can be registered in the BRP declaration of residence and address at the municipality where they are (temporarily) staying. To do so, please contact the municipality of Aalten, Customer Contact Center 0543 49 33 33.
Can I help?
Yes, you can. There are several ways to do this.
Do you have living space available and would you like to make it available for the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees? Please let us know: goo@aalten.nl
We are looking for volunteer "buddies" to support the refugees and their host families. You can register or request more information at oekraine@figulus-welzijn.nl.