Hesse's €14.5M KISI Project Unites Volunteers to Aid Refugees and Migrants
A new initiative to support refugees and third-country nationals is now underway in Hesse. The KISI project, launched in October 2025, connects local volunteers with trained Integration Guides across 36 municipalities. Two towns, Neu-Isenburg and Braunfels, had already created these roles before the official start date.
The KISI programme spans 18 rural districts in Hesse and will run until September 2028. It receives €14.5 million in funding, with nearly €13 million from the EU, €380,000 from the state, and €1 million from the participating municipalities. Each town involved has either hired or is setting up a dedicated Integration Guide to assist newcomers.
Before the project's official launch, Neu-Isenburg appointed Lilia Sahli to the role, expanding its existing integration office. Braunfels followed shortly after, with Fleur Holste starting on December 1, 2025. The programme aims to fit seamlessly into local administration, ensuring easy access to services. On April 2, 2026, an official welcome event will take place in Wiesbaden. Minister Heike Hofmann will deliver a keynote address, while workshops will cover topics like volunteer engagement and municipal integration strategies. The project also encourages collaboration between towns, allowing them to share best practices and work alongside existing volunteer networks. KISI focuses on helping recognised refugees and third-country nationals settle in. Integration Guides will act as a bridge, linking newcomers with local support systems and community initiatives.
The initiative brings together funding, local expertise, and volunteer efforts to improve integration across Hesse. With 36 municipalities involved and a structured support network, the programme aims to create long-term stability for those arriving in the region. The first major gathering of Integration Guides is set for April 2026.
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