groninger stands up for little patients and big-hearted care

There are places where hope grows, where expertise and compassion come together. Places where people go above and beyond to support others. Places where empathy is not just an idea, but a lived reality. 

The Clinic for Children and Adolescents at the hospital in Schwäbisch Hall is one such place. And it is here that groninger wants to make a difference with a €10,000 donation.

“When a child is sick, the world stands still. In those moments, it’s not only rapid medical care that matters, but also empathy and humanity,” says Michaela Groninger. “With this donation, we want to support not only the young patients but also the people who dedicate their hearts and energy to caring for them every single day.”

Part of the €10,000 will fund the invaluable work of the hospital clowns, who brighten the children’s days with humor, warmth, and a keen sense for their worries – because laughter is often the best medicine.

The other part will go toward a team-building event for the clinic staff, giving them space for connection and solidarity.

“Often, it’s the little things that make a big difference: a smile in an exceptional situation like a hospital stay, a moment of relief, a sign that someone cares,” Michaela Groninger emphasizes. “That’s why we wanted this donation to reach the people who need it most – not for technology or infrastructure, but for those who give their time, strength, knowledge, and heart to others.”

The donation stems from a special initiative: groninger employees were able to purchase memorabilia from the former Crailsheim cult nightclub “Apfelbaum.” The proceeds of €6,787 were topped up by the Groninger family to reach €10,000.

“As a father of four, I know the worry that comes when your own child is so ill or injured that hospital care is needed,” says Jens Groninger, CEO of the groninger Group. “In those moments, every minute counts – and every bit of closeness. That’s why good, local healthcare is so important. It gives families stability when everything else feels uncertain.”

Isabell Rathgeb, Chairwoman of the Friends’ Association, is deeply grateful for this extraordinary donation: “The hospital clowns are a ray of light for many children in a situation where they are sick and separated from home, family, and friends. And our team at the children’s clinic needs moments like these too. The team-building event is a tremendous gift that will help them through their demanding daily work.”

The clinic’s medical director, Chief Physician Prof. Dr. Andreas Holzinger, agrees: “This donation is more than financial support. It’s a wonderful sign of solidarity and appreciation for our work. A strong team is the foundation for excellent medical and nursing care.”

For groninger, social commitment is not a project – it’s a principle. “We are a family business rooted in this region – with a heart for the people who live here,” says Jens Groninger. “This donation is our way of saying thank you.”