"I always knew that I wanted to work in the social sector," says the 45-year-old mother of two children (19 and 16 years old). She accompanies three to four families a week - like that of Rukiye (36) from Perg, who is expecting her fourth child in July.
Four children when you don't know what to do next
Born in France, Rukiye came to Perg from Strasbourg in 2012 when she married her husband Özkan (38), a skilled labourer. Today she says quite clearly: "I wouldn't know what I would do without Caritas Family Support."
The family is particularly worried about their third child, one-and-a-half-year-old Halis. He suffers from a rare, severe heart muscle disease. For a long time, it was uncertain whether he would survive his first year of life. "We have lots of doctor's appointments and have to be extremely careful that he doesn't get upset, cry or get any infections. It will remain critical until he's three - after that it should get better."
When everyday life becomes a feat of strength
But the two older children (aged 7 and 12) also need attention, the household has to run - an enormous burden for Rukiye. She finally found out about Caritas Family Support through the child and youth welfare organisation.
Relief you can feel - three times a week
"I am so grateful. The Caritas workers come three times a week in the afternoon: they help the children with their homework or me with the housework - cooking, cleaning, ironing. If I have to take the little one to the doctor, I know the others are well looked after. Or I can do the shopping in peace - and my children are in the best of hands. They also love their family helpers. The stress has become much less. That's good for all of us. Our family life is much more harmonious." The regular support creates space to take a deep breath - and helps to cope with everyday life. For Rukiye, one thing is clear: without the help of Caritas, many things would hardly be possible.
There are many reasons for needing support
There are many reasons why Caritas Mobile Family Services are called in: a stressful pregnancy, the birth of another child, health problems in children or parents - for example, when a mother needs to recover after an operation.
"Many people don't realise that it doesn't take anything major or dramatic to call on family help," explains Christine Augl. "When a wave of colds disrupts family life in autumn, that's enough." As a mother of two, she knows how quickly everyday life can become a challenge.
If you would like to become part of the team, you can find vacancies at www.caritas-ooe.at/jobs.
We think people like Christine Augl are #schongenial.
