The Netherlands Benevolent Society/Koning Willem Fonds held its 152nd AGM in July, hosted by HE Paul Huijts, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. For over 150 years, the Charity (KWF) has quietly supported Dutch passport holders in the UK who have fallen on hard times — help that is often practical as much as financial: food vouchers, support with living situations, and assistance with identity paperwork such as passports.
Applicant numbers fell to 145 in 2025, and we expect a further decline this year, to around 120. Even so, that remains sizeably higher than a decade ago, and behind every figure is a personal story — we try to get to know each individual’s situation properly, often through a home visit, before deciding how best to help. Every penny earned in investment income and donations goes directly to applicants. There is only one paid member of staff; every Trustee gives their time freely. As we look ahead, our priority is to keep the Charity’s finances secure for future generations, and to build stronger corporate sponsorship alongside our loyal private donors. If you would like to support our work regularly, please take a look at our website: www.koningwillemfonds.org.uk
I recently took over as Chair from Loesje van Hellenberg Hubar, who remains involved as a Trustee and who we thank for many years of volunteering as Chair.
Claire Lahnstein, Chair Koning Willem Fonds
In de maand augustus is de diaconie collecte bestemd voor het Koning Willem Fonds, de diaconie beveelt deze collecte van harte bij u aan!