St. Pauli: Garbage man working for cleanliness and social diversity!

St. Pauli: Garbage man working for cleanliness and social diversity!

When you stroll through the streets of St. Pauli, you can't help but notice the many facets of this lively district. Torsten Otto, who has been working as a garbage and neighborhood cleaner for two and a half years, has had a decisive influence on the cityscape. His tasks are as diverse as the people he comes into contact with every day. Cleanliness and hygiene are important to him, but supporting the residents who live in this colorful district also play a central role. Loud SCENE HAMBURG Otto's everyday work is not only varied, but also sometimes challenging: he regularly has to work with the police and the district office to get to grips with problems.

St. Pauli, known for its cosmopolitan nature, attracts people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Otto reports on encounters with both wealthy and homeless people. Given the social diversity in the district, sensitivity is required. “There’s something there,” you could say when you look at the many positive and negative experiences he had during his time. Among other things, Otto recently had to call an emergency doctor when he found an unresponsive person. Such experiences show that there are often real challenges hidden behind the colorful façade of the neighborhood.

Social projects in focus

The social responsibility in the district is also visible through the activities of FC St. Pauli. In October 2023, money from the Kiezhelden donation pot was distributed to twelve social projects. A total of around 63,000 euros flowed into these initiatives FC St Pauli reported. This is a social commitment that consists of donations and charity proceeds. The donation pot supports projects that actively strive for integration, education and social participation.

• Chancenreiter des Phonton 3 e.V. (Sportangebote für geflüchtete Jugendliche)
• Yoga-Kurse für geflüchtete Frauen und Kinder (Never Give Up e.V.)
• Öffentlichkeitsarbeit für das Soli-Konzert „Sounds für die Straße“ (Café mit Herz e.V.)
• Musik-Projekt von ROCK KIDS e.V. (Bernstorffstraße, kostenlos für Kinder und Jugendliche)

The clubs that are supported do valuable work and help to strengthen the social network in St. Pauli. The exchange between different social classes is particularly important here and leads to a stronger sense of community.

Challenges and opportunities in the district

But as in many parts of Germany, there are challenges here too. Many disadvantaged groups experience income poverty, frequent changes of residence and the lack of stable social networks. The “Social City” initiative provides information about the urgent needs in disadvantaged urban areas. The need for modern living space, social ties and a positive district image is emphasized here. The program aims to develop solutions to these challenges, such as Social city of North Rhine-Westphalia shows.

The focus is on areas of action such as building and living, integration and social networks. Improving public space and creating awareness of the needs of residents are essential to increasing the quality of life in St. Pauli. When people feel comfortable in their neighborhood and get involved, it not only improves the image of the district, but also strengthens cooperation.

St. Pauli is a lively, vibrant place that is constantly changing. More than ever, community support and engagement is needed to take advantage of both the challenges and opportunities this neighborhood offers.