On August 24, 2024, Heinrich Floreck passed away unexpectedly at the age of 84. A man of extraordinary compassion, tireless commitment and deep faith has passed away. Heinrich Floreck was not only a husband, father and grandfather, but also a person who made the world a better place through his work. As the founder of ora Kinderhilfe international e.V., he leaves behind a legacy that gives help and hope to countless children and families in need.
Born on March 23, 1940, Heinrich Floreck experienced the horrors of the Second World War at close quarters. This formative experience - witnessing hardship, but also unexpected help - was the cornerstone of his later life. He developed a deep desire to become active himself and help disadvantaged people. This ambition led him to found ora Kinderhilfe international e.V. in 1981, an organization that has been helping the poorest of the poor for more than four decades.
Heinrich Floreck began his work with great courage and unshakeable conviction: Bible smuggling behind the Iron Curtain and the delivery of relief supplies by truck marked the beginning of his commitment. Eastern Europe, which was particularly close to his heart, was the focus of his relief efforts. Under his leadership, ora Kinderhilfe developed into an aid organization that still supports countless people in countries such as Ukraine, Romania, Albania and the Republic of Moldova, but now also in Kenya, Rwanda and Liberia. The association's work includes not only development cooperation, but also disaster relief and sponsorships that give children and families a long-term perspective.
Until his retirement from the management of ora Kinderhilfe in 2011, Heinrich Floreck led the organization with tireless dedication and visionary strength. His life and work were always characterized by a deep Christian faith and an unshakeable desire to do good and change the world through concrete action. Even after his active time, he remained connected to the organization and supported it with his advice and experience.
Heinrich Floreck leaves behind his beloved wife Helga, with whom he shared a fulfilled life for many years, as well as four adult children and their families.
His family and all those who knew him will remember Heinrich Floreck as a man who carried the light of hope to the darkest corners of the world. His life's work, ora Kinderhilfe, will cherish his memory and continue to work in his spirit.
With deep gratitude, we bid farewell to a great man who was a role model for humanity and charity. Heinrich Floreck, may your commitment to the weakest in the world live on in the hearts of many.
Rest in peace.
written by Carmen Schöngraf, Managing Director
ora Kinderhilfe international e.V., 27.08.2024