
Tariq (36) ended up on the streets after his divorce. Without a permanent home and income, he had to look for a new start. He sought help from the municipality. The municipality arranged an interpreter and benefits, and helped him pay off his debts. This gave him peace and control again.
Tariq came to the Netherlands as a refugee a few years ago. He initially lived with his family in Heerenveen, but his marriage ended in divorce. This put Tariq in a difficult situation.
After the divorce, Tariq no longer had a home and could not stay in Heerenveen. He was referred to the municipality of Leeuwarden, where he could receive better help. Finding a home was difficult, however. In the meantime, he was able to go to Avant Care, an agency that offers overnight shelter to people who are in the asylum procedure. Unfortunately, he was not entitled to benefits at that time. As a result, his financial problems worsened.

When the financial problems became too big, Tariq decided to seek help. An appointment at the municipality was quickly scheduled and he received support from an interpreter. This helped him immensely. An employee of Avant Care and Vluchtelingenwerk Heerenveen were also able to give Tariq the help he so desperately needed.
Now, a few years later, Tariq looks back on that difficult period with a sense of relief. Thanks to the help provided by the municipality, he is now entitled to social assistance, has a home and most of his debts have been paid off. He still occasionally borrows money from friends to get through short periods, but his worries have diminished considerably.
“Take the advice of care providers seriously, otherwise your problems may get worse.”

Tariq, 36 years old
Tariq never hesitated to ask for help. “The municipality is the first authority you can turn to when you are going to live somewhere. As a newcomer, I didn’t know anyone here, so I had to ask for help. I am very happy that I got the right help.”
He advises others not to wait: “Seek help immediately if you cannot pay a bill. The sooner you seek help, the better. And never lose hope. I have seen many people with financial problems at Avant Care. Some sought solace in narcotics. Take the advice of care providers seriously, otherwise your problems may get worse.”
*This story is narrated by an actor and is inspired by true real-life stories. The names of the individuals are known to the Municipality of Leeuwarden.”
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