haarlemsdagbladJun 22, 2026, 17:39

Marlou starts fundraiser for new 'garbage truck' for scammed neighborhood icon Toon: 'He's always there for everyone'

Marlou Remeeus has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help her neighbor, 73-year-old volunteer Toon van Wijnen, after he was scammed and left with high repair costs for his cleaning vehicle. Van Wijnen is a local icon known for voluntarily cleaning the streets in Haarlem and Velsen. The fundraiser aims to cover the expenses so he can continue his service to the community.

Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands

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

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Firefighters rescue cat from under car hood in Haarlem

Emergency responders in Haarlem successfully rescued a cat that became trapped inside a car engine on Wednesday morning. After initial efforts to free the animal failed, the fire department was called to assist in the delicate operation.

Old biscuit factory in Haarlem becomes haunted hotel for Halloween

The former De Volharding factory in Haarlem-Noord is being transformed into the Haunted Transue Hotel from October 28 to 31. Architect Adam Transue designed the attraction using recycled materials to provide an immersive Halloween experience for the public.

Watch out for the Spanish! This walk takes you back centuries in Haarlem

Haarlem will host a StoryTrail theater walk on October 18, where storyteller Franciscus will bring local legends and history to life for participants. The tour features tales of historical figures like Kenau Simonsdochter Hasselaer and requires advanced ticket bookings.

Looking for a friendly chat? Step into the yellow square at the station on Wednesday

To promote social connection, the Week of the Chat initiative is launching in Haarlem on October 14, featuring a designated yellow zone at the train station where people can meet for casual conversations. Inspired by research from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the project aims to help individuals feel happier and less lonely by encouraging social interaction and boosting confidence.