Dep. Legal A 42-2025 - ISSN 3015-1309
Costa Blanca North I No. 2115 I 15 - 21 January 2026 I FREE Newspaper
ARNE SOETEN, founder of Costa Blanca homeless charity Project 4 All, faces a possible custodial sentence over an unpaid €387,000 confiscation order in the Netherlands. Supporters warn that imprisonment could dismantle one of the region’s key lifelines for vulnerable people. After more than a decade helping those on the margins, Soeten risks losing the ability to continue his work. Project 4 All offers food, shelter, warmth and guidance to homeless and marginalised individuals across the Costa Blanca. Largely volunteer-run and
Credit: Arne Soeten Facebook
Expats back Arne
Soeten’s situation stems from financial impossibility rather than any criminal intent or wrongdoing.
donation-funded, the charity fills gaps left by public services, particularly in areas affected by economic inequality. Supporters say Soeten’s situation stems from financial impossibi-
lity rather than criminal wrongdoing, and that jailing him would punish not just him but the people who rely on the charity. Soeten openly recounts his past addiction and
criminality, noting he has been sober for over 11 years and dedicated his life to helping others. Friends and volunteers describe him as a figure who restores practical support, dignity and hope. A growing petition urges authorities to consider repayment plans or community-based alternatives to prison.
See our advert on page 23 or visit our new website
Currency transfers you can trust. Fully authorised to operate in Spain. See our advert on 35
Get a quote