haarlemJan 15, 2026, 12:00

HaarlemPas helps with pet costs

Starting January 19, 2026, the municipality of Haarlem will provide financial assistance for pet care to low-income residents holding a HaarlemPas. The pilot program offers up to €200 annually for general veterinary expenses and a limited number of vouchers for free cat sterilization and chipping. This initiative aims to support animal health and reduce the population of stray cats in the city.

Economy Lifestyle Haarlem

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Based on reporting by haarlem. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Outdated information used in documents regarding tourist and advertising taxes

The Haarlem city council has postponed its vote on revisions to tourism and advertising taxes due to the use of outdated documents containing technical errors. Finance Alderman Hendrik Jan Biemond apologized for the mistakes, which necessitated a delay until December to ensure all tax ordinances are accurate and legally sound.

Number of children in welfare families in Haarlem increases for the first time since 2021

The number of children living in families dependent on social assistance in Haarlem increased to 2,220 last year, marking the first rise since 2021. Research highlights that these children face a significantly higher risk of experiencing long-term unemployment and financial instability in their adult lives.

Farmer and toy seller: why be a farmer if you can't make a living from it?

The Houdijk family in Abbenes keeps their farm running by supplementing crop production with a successful toy shop and off-farm employment. Despite the financial instability of the agricultural sector, the next generation remains committed to continuing the family business because of their passion for the lifestyle.

Westeinder campsite residents back in court: 'compensation too low'

Residents of Camping De Westeinder have returned to court in Haarlem to challenge the inadequate compensation offered by developer Kleen Estate for their forced relocation. Many residents rely on the park for permanent housing due to the local housing crisis and argue that the current offers are insufficient to cover relocation costs or provide alternative shelter.

Amsterdam begins distributing emergency kits via the Food Bank

Amsterdam is launching a temporary emergency food parcel distribution program for low-income households in collaboration with the local food bank. The initiative aims to provide essential support to vulnerable residents over the next several weeks.