die Anlaufstelle
Translation
point of contact, first port of call, help desk, contact point
Examples
Das Bürgeramt ist die erste Anlaufstelle.
The citizens' office is the first point of contact.
Wir brauchen eine zentrale Anlaufstelle für Hilfesuchende.
We need a central point of contact for people seeking help.
Grammar Patterns
to be a point of contact for sb./sth. eine Anlaufstelle für j-n/et4 sein The center is a point of contact for families.
Similar Words
die Kontaktstelle (contact point), das Beratungszentrum (advisory center)
Etymology
Composed of 'anlaufen' (to head for) and 'Stelle' (place). It's the 'place' you 'head for' initially.
Memory Tips
Think of it as the 'starting point' or the place you 'run to' (anlaufen) when you have an issue.