STORY: Large rush at the table in Berlin-Oberschöneweide a few days before Christmas. Everything is getting more expensive – and without the boards, many people would not be able to make ends meet. The helpers of the Evangelical Free Church community in Berlin-Oberschöneweide, who are involved in the food bank initiative, also notice this. ALEXANDER PAGELS, TAFEL EMPLOYEE “This year we went through a development that in January we had around 120 households on average, here every Thursday. Now we’re at an average of 200. On the one hand, this is due to the refugee development, due because of the war in Ukraine, but also because of the inflation, that more people have a need to receive support from us.” If the people who come here usually have to pay 1.50 euros for the groceries, this time it was free. Because it’s Christmas and because there were a lot of donations. “I’m so grateful that they just offered me that. And well, but you can’t have it any better – for 1.50. Well, if you don’t use it, it’s your own fault.” The groceries are collected at around 70 locations in Berlin, mostly at supermarkets. But especially around Christmas time, many private donations arrive at the Tafel – both money and food. But the need remains great – and not just at Christmas.