100th issue of the street newspaper 'marie': A milestone for marginalized groups!

100th issue of the street newspaper 'marie': A milestone for marginalized groups!

On Friday, December 27th, the street newspaper “marie” celebrates its 100th publication and looks back on a successful nine-year history. Editorial director Frank Andres is pleased with the positive outcome: “We have established ourselves and manage to find enough readers to buy the newspaper every month.” This independent publication does without subsidies and delivers constructive journalism that also addresses important social grievances, as editor Simone Fürnschuß-Hofer explains. “Marie” not only gives marginalized groups a voice, but also sheds light on different areas of life, offering its readership a wide range of content.

A window to society

The “marie” is more than just a street newspaper; It is a mouthpiece for the concerns of the homeless, the long-term unemployed and addicts, who can generate an important source of income through the sale of the newspaper. As with many of these newspapers, the sellers receive at least 50 percent of the proceeds, giving them back some financial autonomy. This form of self-help not only supports the sellers financially, but also gives them the opportunity to actively participate in social life and overcome isolation. The connections made when selling are significant. According to Paradisi.de, contact with customers and the feeling of a community is of great importance for sellers and contributes positively to their self-esteem.

In addition, street newspapers have a long tradition that began in the 1990s when the first copies appeared in German cities. Their concept has proven to be effective in helping the homeless and sharpening society's view of the realities of their lives. This is supported by the commitment of many social projects, which also organize events or emergency shelters to provide even more comprehensive help to the homeless. “Marie” proves to be an indispensable element in the social fabric of Vorarlberg and offers a platform that both informs and inspires.