Pepingen care home opens air-conditioned spaces and garden to neighborhood for cooling relief

As temperatures soar, the Woonzorgcentrum Henri Vander Stokken in Pepingen is opening its doors to the entire community, offering a cool escape from the heatwave.

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During warm periods, it is important that we take extra care of each other.

The care home is making its air-conditioned spaces, including the chapel, multipurpose room, and cafeteria, freely available to anyone seeking relief. The garden, with its shady trees, is also accessible. This initiative, spearheaded by the center's management, specifically targets the elderly and vulnerable but welcomes all Pepingen residents.

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We are very grateful to WZC Henri Vander Stokken for opening their cooled spaces to our residents.

Local officials have lauded the effort. First alderman Kristof De Cuyper emphasized the importance of mutual care during hot weather. "We are very grateful to WZC Henri Vander Stokken for opening their cooled spaces to our residents," he stated. "This initiative shows how strong our community is when we work together and look out for each other."

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This initiative shows how strong our community is when we work together and look out for each other.

While the center provides a much-needed respite, De Cuyper noted a practical challenge: the local bus line has canceled the stop at the care home, making access more difficult for those without cars or bicycles. Despite this, the center remains a vital resource for Pepingen residents during heatwaves, allowing them to pass the hottest parts of the day in comfort.

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You can easily get there by car or bicycle, unfortunately, De Lijn has canceled the bus stop at the nursing home.