Reported from the source

Quick summary: The town of Herzberg in South Brandenburg is actively working to reverse population decline through its “Comeback Elbe-Elster” initiative. This program helps former residents, often young families, return to their roots by providing information and support for finding jobs, housing, and childcare. The initiative highlights the appeal of a quieter, more affordable rural life, strong family ties, and a sense of community, even if it means sacrificing some urban amenities.

Herzberg, a small medieval town in South Brandenburg, is striving for growth by encouraging former residents to return. The “Comeback Elbe-Elster” initiative organizes “returnee days” to connect interested individuals with local businesses, landlords, and associations. Julia Procopius, who herself returned to Herzberg from Braunschweig six years ago, leads the initiative, offering practical advice on everything from daycare applications to job opportunities and available housing. The latest returnee day attracted around 20 people, including Simone Kanter, who plans to move back from Berlin, finding the capital too large and impersonal. The initiative’s slogan, “Heeme ist’s auch schön” (Home is nice too), encapsulates its mission. While Herzberg, located about 100 kilometers from Berlin, Leipzig, and Dresden, is a provincial town, it boasts amenities like a stadium, swimming pool, hospital, botanical garden, and planetarium. However, its primary draw for returnees lies in personal connections and lifestyle benefits. Oliver Meinicke, a 37-year-old art and bell founder, is another example. After 15 years away in cities like Jena and Berlin, he returned to Herzberg, convinced by the desire for a sense of belonging and the advantages for his family. He cited free daycare spots, affordable housing, numerous job opportunities, significantly lower living costs compared to larger cities, and the proximity to his mother, who wants to be an active grandmother. Meinicke acknowledges the limited cultural and shopping options but finds the trade-off worthwhile for the community integration and family-friendly environment. Julia Procopius echoes these sentiments, noting that family, a peaceful rural life, and lower living costs are key motivators for many returnees. Simone Kanter, with support from Procopius, aims to be a “new-old Herzberger” within the next two to three years.

Source: www.tagesschau.de