Social funding in danger: Caritas director warns of cuts!

Social funding in danger: Caritas director warns of cuts!

In the midst of financial bottlenecks and federal austerity measures, Innsbruck Caritas director Elisabeth Rathgeb has spoken clearly to politicians. The impetus was the recent demand from State Economics Councilor Mario Gerber to “clean up” social support, which sparked great resentment. Rathgeb, who has been working as deputy director of Caritas since September 1, 2020, made it clear that such savings would primarily affect the most vulnerable in society. “Who exactly is meant by this?” she questioned whether, for example, minimum pensioners or single parents should suffer from the austerity measures. “These people have no lobby – they need our support,” warned Rathgeb in a press release Kathpress reported.

The Caritas director also emphasized that social support not only serves to secure the livelihoods of those in need, but also has positive economic effects. “Every euro invested in social support is also indirect economic support,” says Rathgeb. The money goes back into the local economic cycle, for example through rent payments or the purchase of food. This is particularly important in the current economic situation, as the corona pandemic has plunged many citizens into financial difficulties. In addition, Rathgeb will use her new tasks in the post-Corona phase to continue to run Caritas in Innsbruck and deal with the challenges sensibly, as she emphasized in her new position.

Elisabeth Rathgeb, who previously worked in education and pastoral care for years, brings extensive experience to her role. Their commitment to supporting those in need and calling on political leadership to uphold social justice during the impending austerity measures reflect their commitment. Strong social networks and a carefully planned social budget are crucial for the stability of the community, is their urgent appeal to politicians.