Refugees and locals will live together in a new apartment complex supported by Schwandorf Mennonite Church in Germany.

According to Schwandorf Pastor Paul Warkentin, around 90 people are anticipated to live in 31 apartments in three buildings.

The “Houses of Hope” project is an initiative of Hope Bearers Foundation, a Christian organization that has built about a dozen such developments in Germany.

The project raises questions for the congregation that relate to its own church work: How can encounters between people of different backgrounds be successful? How can lasting relationships be established? How can Christian faith contribute to peaceful coexistence in everyday life?

“Houses of Hope” combine living space with integration work, social work, volunteering, networking and education. Spiritual life and interreligious dialogue are also integral components. The goal is to understand integration not only as a form of assistance but as living together in community.

Even before the planned occupancy in 2027, a community is to be established in Schwandorf. This includes networking with local churches, social service providers and committed individuals. A team of approximately three full-time staff will include a site manager, social worker and maintenance staff.