The emergency shelter

The COA is responsible for an equal distribution of men, women and families in all reception locations in the Netherlands. Most people come from Syria and Afghanistan. It has been agreed that at least 50% of the emergency shelter will be people with a residence permit and the rest will be asylum seekers with good prospects (people who are still waiting for a residence permit). Most residents have been living in the Netherlands for some time. The prospect is that they will remain in the Netherlands. People with a status are waiting for regular housing, but due to a shortage on the housing market they are still staying in the shelter.

No unaccompanied minor refugees will be admitted to the emergency shelter in Zoetermeer.

It is a large location with space for a maximum of 660 people. It has been agreed with the COA that they may accommodate a maximum of 630 people. There is therefore sufficient space available for these people. The COA determines the layout of the reception location. Most people will share a bedroom with someone else. Families are kept together.

The residents of the emergency shelter can cook for themselves at the location. They receive living expenses for things and groceries. In addition, there are opportunities for relaxation and sports (sports hall and sports fields) and people go to school, work or integration lessons.

The COA is responsible for the liveability and safety in the location. They do this by providing information, drawing up rules of conduct and taking measures in the event of unpleasant events. During the day there is staff for all kinds of guidance and there is also security at all times.

Just like all other residents of Zoetermeer, the people in the reception locations go to work (status holders) and to school. In addition, there are activities for relaxation. People can decide for themselves whether they want to participate. The COA provides information on all kinds of subjects concerning living and life in the Netherlands (integration). Part of this is learning the Dutch language.

There are clear house rules, but people are free to come and go as they please.

Like all children in the Netherlands, children of asylum seekers are subject to compulsory education. 

All children of compulsory school age attend a school in Zoetermeer.

The COA is responsible for the reception of refugees in the Netherlands. For more information, visit the COA website .

Medical care is provided on site by a GP consultation hour. Help is also available for people with psychological complaints. Employees of VluchtelingenWerk Zoetermeer provide support at the reception location.