Future of assistance for the disabled in Schwalm-Eder – a new beginning is imminent!
In the Hersfeld-Rotenburg district, support for people with disabilities is being reorganized. Important new start-ups and initiatives are coming up.

Future of assistance for the disabled in Schwalm-Eder – a new beginning is imminent!
The future of assistance for the disabled in Hesse is in jeopardy. How HNA reported, the dissolution of the AfbM in the Schwalm-Eder district was announced during the most recent annual general meeting of the Action for Disabled People in Hesse (AfbM) association in the Homberg district office. A bitter blow for disability work, which has been active in the region for 47 years and makes a significant contribution to the integration and inclusion of people with disabilities.
After the announcement of the dissolution, District Administrator Winfried Becker made it clear that the AfbM in the Schwalm-Eder district urgently needs to be preserved. Becker would like to actively involve the mayors of this region in the new foundation, which is being initiated under the umbrella of AfbM Hessen. The President of the AfbM, Jürgen Damm, is taking up the challenge and is already in talks with various actors to mobilize the urgently needed support.
Jürgen Damm, who has been at the head of the AfbM for 29 years, also announced his withdrawal for the new elections in 2026. He reminded those present of the AfbM's important achievements, including the around 3,500 hours of volunteer support that were provided during the last Hesse Days. “Self-determination and participation are the cornerstones of our work,” said Damm, who denounced the historical discrimination against people with disabilities and called for more support and acceptance.
The role of the integration service
In parallel to the discussion about the AfbM, the Schwalm-Eder integration service is doing important work by integrating people with disabilities into the labor market. The aim is to secure and improve participation in professional life. Goals and offers are not just aimed at employeesthose with severe disabilities, but also to employersinside and members of works councils. The integration specialist service acts as a central contact person who works on behalf of the LWV Hessen and offers free advice, entirely in the spirit of inclusion and participation.
The support that people with disabilities need is made possible not only by associations like the AfbM, but also by institutions like this specialist service. Together they work to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead a self-determined life.
Challenges and perspectives
The need for such initiatives is highlighted by the history of discrimination against people with disabilities. The AfbM aims to break down these barriers and create a more inclusive environment. The need for financing for such projects is high, as many of the offerings come from membership fees, donations and income from events.
The upcoming innovations in the social structure of assistance for the disabled in Hesse require united forces. With a good plan and support from everyone involved, founding the new AfbM Hessen could be a step in the right direction - for more participation and inclusion in society.
With a clear focus on the future, it is crucial that all stakeholders work together. If you have any questions or support, Jürgen Damm is available on 05691/4268 or by email info@afbm-hessen.de. You can also find more information on the website AfbM Hesse.