Founded in 1884 the Franz Sales Haus stands before us. It began as a small institution. The goal was to educate and care for Catholic children with intellectual disabilities. This was a time when such children often faced neglect. The Franz Sales Haus provided a refuge.
The original name was quite long. It was the Verein zur Erziehung und Pflege katholischer idiotischer Kinder beiderlei Geschlechts aus der Rheinprovinz. This translates to Association for the Education and Care of Catholic idiotic children of both sexes from the Rhine Province. The term idiotic reflects the insensitive language of the time.
In 1892 the Franz Sales Haus moved to its current location. It was renamed after Saint Francis de Sales. He’s the patron saint of those with hearing impairments. This connection is rather interesting. It reflects the evolution of the institution’s focus.
The Franz Sales Haus faced immense challenges during the Nazi era. Before the Aktion T4 program began 1096 men women and children lived there. Between 1941 and 1943 832 were deported to psychiatric clinics. Many were victims of Nazi euthanasia programs. The survival of some depended on factors. These included the actions of the institution’s staff. The political leanings of the children’s parents also played a role.
After World War II the Franz Sales Haus continued to evolve. It adapted to changing societal views on disability. It expanded its services. It added vocational training programs. It created a residential program with contact parents. These parents helped to maintain family connections for children living at the Haus. This innovative approach was crucial for the emotional well-being of the children.
The Franz Sales Haus continued to expand its facilities. In 1994 it opened a workshop for people with disabilities. This provided employment opportunities. In 2001 the main building was renovated. Only the original 1892 facade was preserved. The modern Franz Sales Haus is a testament to progress. The organization now operates under several subsidiaries. These offer a wide range of services from residential care to employment opportunities.
Today the Franz Sales Haus boasts a state-of-the-art sports center. It’s known for its inclusive approach. This includes the first integrative fitness center in Germany. It also operates a four-star hotel. This demonstrates a commitment to integration and social inclusion. The Franz Sales Haus has been recognized for its environmental efforts. It’s a recipient of the Essen Environmental Award. This was granted in 2015 for sustainable practices. The institution strives to provide comprehensive support. This support empowers individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives. The Franz Sales Haus continues to shape the landscape of disability services in Germany. It remains a beacon of hope and progress. It’s a testament to the dedication of countless individuals.