Limburg children meet Princess Claire for Auxilia vzw's €10,000 prize
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Auxilia vzw, an organization supporting children with limited opportunities, has been awarded a €10,000 prize from the Queen Paola Foundation.
- Princess Claire of Belgium met with children from Limburg who are supported by Auxilia vzw at the Castle of Laeken to celebrate the award.
- The prize recognizes Auxilia vzw's significant social impact in providing free, individualized learning support to over 2,600 children annually through 1,500 volunteers.
In a heartwarming recognition of its profound social impact, Auxilia vzw has been honored with a €10,000 prize from the prestigious Queen Paola Foundation. This award celebrates the organization's unwavering commitment to supporting children facing limited opportunities, a mission that resonates deeply within our community.
For many children, that weekly guidance means much more than just homework help. It's also about self-confidence, getting opportunities, and feeling that someone believes in them.
The significance of this award was amplified by a special visit from Princess Claire, who met with several Limburg children and volunteers at the Royal Palace of Laeken. This encounter provided the young beneficiaries with a unique opportunity to interact with royalty, share their experiences, and feel the direct support of the Belgian monarchy. For these children, who often struggle with academic challenges and a lack of confidence, meeting Princess Claire was undoubtedly a moment of immense pride and encouragement.
Some had very romantic questions, like whether the princess would wear a train or a crown.
Auxilia vzw's work is vital, offering free, individualized learning support to over 2,600 children, young people, and adults annually across Flanders. This extensive reach is made possible by the dedication of 1,500 volunteers who provide one-on-one assistance at homes or schools. As Joris De Cuyper, chairman and volunteer, aptly stated, this support extends far beyond homework help; it fosters self-confidence, creates opportunities, and instills the belief that someone cares. The Queen Paola Foundation's prize not only provides financial backing but also shines a much-needed spotlight on the growing need for such personalized educational assistance for vulnerable children in our society.
Do you like being a princess, what studies did you follow, or how old are you?
Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.