The Story of Freeshop 2022-2024

On April 13, 2022, HUG found a home at Svenska Kyrkan's premises on Bankogatan 61, becoming a sanctuary for Ukrainians arriving in Gothenburg. Our mission was to restore dignity and create a supportive community where they felt seen, heard, and valued as they rebuilt their lives.

Central to this effort was the Freeshop, a simple yet impactful idea: a space where people could access essentials—clothing, food, and supplies—to regain a sense of normalcy and safety. This initiative, supported by a network of compassionate individuals, became a lifeline and a symbol of hope for many.

A Lifeline of Hope

Through amazing donations and the dedication of volunteers, we were able to open the doors every day and provide what was needed.  

“Welcome to Sweden! Let us believe and hope that we have just experienced the worst and a bright future is closer than you can imagine “ - The Larsson family, donors

Many of our visitors, who were struggling to make ends meet on the 71 SEK a day refugees were allocated for their livelihoods, saw the Freeshop as a vital resource for obtaining essential supplies.

Every day we met people who had different but also similar needs. Almost everyone we met was hungry and in need of basic food items. Demand grew quickly, and Freeshop became an important place for many.

“I have lost everything, but I have not lost hope that there are good people who will not leave us alone in the dark” - Olga, visitor

For many, it became a safe place that helped them move forward in their lives. It became a place filled with community and solidarity, where we strived to make a positive change in the lives of Ukrainians.

A New Chapter for HUG

After 2.5 years of operation, Freeshop has closed its doors. Since 2022, we have received 30,000 visits and distributed tons of donations. It has been an honor to support so many during challenging times.

As the needs of the community evolve and more Ukrainians find jobs and start building new lives in Swedeen, we are focusing more on initiatives that promote mental health and long-term community integration, as the mental and emotional scars left by war are still deep.

And now, as we continue to walk this path together, know that the work we do will always be built on the foundation of your generosity and care. Thank you for everything you’ve given, and for continuing to stand with us.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Donors, Partners and Sponsors

As we close this chapter, we want to express our deepest gratitude to you, our donors, sponsors, volunteers and partners. Your support has been the cornerstone of everything we’ve accomplished. Every donation, every act of kindness, has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.

You helped us not only provide essentials but also build a bridge for people to find connection, care, and hope.  

A special thank you to:  Svenska Kyrkan, Ica Högsbo, Ingela Martinsson, Anne Lundgren, Antje Schachinger, Anders Ridderström, Monica Hafström, Christine Hellqvist, Julia Swahn Dahlgren, Per Rosengren, Djoko Sokolov, Dan Lundberg, Åsa Sjögren, Elke Alho, Pelle Thom, Dahls Bageri and Sylvain Marron.

Together, we’ve shown what’s possible when we unite for a common cause. Thank you for standing by us and Ukraine.

We Hug You!

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