At Strauss, our social commitment focuses on educational projects. One such initiative is our support for the antonius: gemeinsam Mensch network in Fulda, Hesse. As a foundation, antonius works to improve the starting conditions and quality of life of people with disabilities and develops innovative projects across all areas of life. These include housing, employment, leisure activities, early intervention and education.
Strauss and antonius have maintained a close relationship for many years, and Strauss has supported initiatives of the antonius community foundation for decades. It has also become a valued tradition for Strauss apprentices and managers to take part in the Seitenwechsel (“Change of Perspective”) project, spending a day working alongside the antonius team.
ANTONIUS VON PADUA SCHOOL: A SCHOOL FOR EVERYONE
Through multi-million-euro donations, Strauss made the construction of the Antonius von Padua School in Fulda possible. At the primary level, children with and without disabilities learn together. Each year, 15 children begin grade 1, including five children with cognitive disabilities. The students without disabilities move on to secondary schools after grade 4, while those pupils with disabilities remain at the school until grade 10, and then attend the Startbahn Vocational Preparation School.
As the number of applications to Antonius von Padua School regularly exceeds the number of seats available, the building was expanded in 2026. Strauss fully financed the accessible new building, which provides approximately 1,600 additional square metres of space for shared learning. This will enable the primary grades to grow from 60 to 120 pupils over the long term, creating more space for inclusive participation. The connection between antonius and the Strauss family has a long history: A financial donation by Strauss made the school’s original building possible in 2015.
HAUS MITTENDRIN: TALENT AND PARTICIPATION
Strauss also financed the construction of Haus Mittendrin. This day-to-day support centre enables people with particularly high support needs to participate in working life. A range of activities supports people in shaping their daily lives together while nurturing their individual talents.
The upper floor contains apartments for pupils attending the Startbahn Vocational Preparation School who face long commutes, are seeking accommodation close to the school, or wishing to become more independent from their family home. Since opening in August 2020, the apartments have remained in consistently high demand. Rather than offering around-the-clock support, as is the case in specialised residential settings, the programme provides young people with additional on-site support in the afternoons and evenings, as well as at weekends when needed. A transport service helps improve their mobility. They also receive support in obtaining a driver’s license and using public transport, helping to strengthen their independence.
GARDEN HOUSE PROJECT
The Garden Houses, comprising 29 residential units, are a flagship project for inclusive living that Strauss has substantially co-financed. Here, people with and without disabilities live together and take responsibility for one another—supporting each other in everyday life while also having the opportunity to withdraw when they choose.
The residential project is located on the antonius main campus, which is currently being developed into an open, vibrant neighbourhood. Ground was broken in April 2023, and the new homes were ready for occupancy by the end of 2025.
MORE PHOTOS FROM THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXTENSION BUILDING AT ANTONIUS VON PADUA SCHOOL
