Photo: Brigitte Glas
As Christmas approaches, it becomes clear how close joy and worry often lie to each other. While many people do their shopping as a matter of course, there are also families in our immediate neighbourhood for whom even the most basic necessities are a challenge.
This is exactly where the Hofer Kipferlmarkt in the Hofhegnenberg castle courtyard comes in. For years, the small, atmospheric Advent market has been more than just a meeting place in the run-up to Christmas - it is a place where help becomes tangible. All the proceeds from Dr Peter and Clara Löw's stalls go to families in need.
This year, around 4,000 euros were raised. Instead of donating to an organisation, the castle owners accompanied the families personally when they went shopping. Together, they selected food, warm winter clothing and Christmas presents for the children - things that would otherwise often remain out of reach.
It was not the amount that was particularly touching, but the feeling of being able to make a decision without having to do the maths and make sacrifices. For many mothers, this purchase meant a bit of normality, dignity and real Christmas joy.
