Neustadt teenager Elias saves the homeless: fundraising campaign started!
On November 12th and 17th, 2025, 13-year-old Elias will be collecting blankets and sleeping bags for the homeless in Lübeck in Neustadt.

Neustadt teenager Elias saves the homeless: fundraising campaign started!
Something special is happening in the heart of Neustadt. A 13-year-old boy, Elias, has decided to make a real difference in the lives of homeless people. Inspired by conversations about the serious issues of homelessness, he and his family launched the “Elias Helps” initiative to collect blankets, sleeping bags and sleeping pads for those in need in Lübeck. This campaign, which has now become a wonderful tradition, is taking place for the third time in the run-up to Christmas. Elias knows that the cold season brings hardship to many people and is determined to help them. The Braun family has teamed up with the aid organization Herzenswärmebus, which works directly with the homeless and offers them not only material support, but also food. According to ln-online.de, more than 200 donations were collected last year, and this year's collection promises to be even more successful become.
Acceptance of donations is well organized. Flyers were distributed to reach as many people as possible in Neustadt. The collection will take place on two dates, November 12th and 17th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the community center at Kirchenstrasse 7. Elias and his family ensure that all the donations collected are transported quickly and directly to Lübeck. Jan Rühmling, the chairman of the Lübeck Homeless Aid, emphasizes how important this initiative is and points out the great need for aids.
With empathy and commitment
Elias, whose name has numerous cultural origins, also symbolizes hope and support. The name Elijah is derived from Elijah, a prophet in the 9th century BC. The word has become established in many languages and is a sign of resilience and caring. Elias has managed to incorporate these traditional values into his modern relief effort, playing an important role as a role model for his peers.
His personal commitment and motivation are contagious. “I want people to know that they are not alone,” explains Elias, adding that he plans to continue the fundraiser in the future. This type of commitment not only radiates hope, but also mobilizes social interaction in the community. While others may only think about their own needs, Elias shows that it's fun to make a difference together.
Cozy pre-Christmas time
In the run-up to Christmas it is particularly nice to see how people in the region stand up for others. The collected blankets, sleeping bags and sleeping pads are not only material goods, but also signs of solidarity. Clothing will not be accepted in this campaign as the focus is on providing much-needed sleeping accommodations for the homeless. The “Elias Helps” initiative brings two things together: the contemplative pre-Christmas period and direct support for those who need help most.
Through this fundraising campaign, the people of Neustadt can do good business with a good feeling. Anyone who would like to get involved should take advantage of the opportunity and come along. After all, it is the community that makes the difference together. Elias shows that each and every one of us can make a contribution to making our world a little bit better. The Heart Warmth Bus and Elias’ initiative are a shining example of this.