Making Christmas a Celebration of Kindness and Hope

Christmas isn’t just about gifts; it’s about the connections we create, the warmth we share, and the hope we bring to others—especially during difficult times. For many of us, this season is a time to reflect on the importance of community and togetherness. But for families who have been forced to leave their homes because of war, this holiday can feel different—often marked by loss, uncertainty, and the pain of displacement. At HUG (Help Ukraine Gothenburg), we strive to bring light into these moments, creating a sense of belonging and support, especially for Ukrainian children and families now living in Sweden.

This year, we decided to make our Christmas celebration extra special. On December 7, 2024, we invited over 250 Ukrainian and Swedish children with their parents from Gothenburg and Västra Götaland to gather at Högsbo Church for a Christmas celebration that would truly matter. It was a day about more than just holiday traditions—it was about creating lasting memories, showing compassion, and making Ukrainian children feel part of a larger, caring community.

Connecting Hearts Across Borders

Ukrainian families who have arrived in Sweden in the wake of the 2022 invasion have faced unimaginable challenges. For many of them, the war is not just a distant event but a painful reality that has torn families apart. For the children, life in a new country can feel overwhelming. But moments like these offer more than just a brief respite—they are an opportunity to show these children that they are not alone. They are seen, heard, and supported.

During this special Christmas celebration, children brought candies from home, crafted handmade Christmas cards, and packed gifts for Ukrainian children who have lost their parents due to the ongoing war. The gifts were part of our St. Nicholas initiative, where children in Sweden showed their empathy and care for their peers in Ukraine.

For these children, the act of giving wasn’t just about the presents. It was about showing that their actions mattered. It was about proving that small acts of kindness can make the world a little brighter, even in the darkest of times. These gestures remind the children that, no matter how far apart they may be, they are united in the spirit of love and compassion.

More Than Charity: A Message of Hope

The day was filled with more than just the excitement of giving and receiving gifts. It was about creating a space where children could share their stories, make new friends, and discover that they are part of a larger, supportive community. This is the heart of our mission at HUG—to create connections and build a network of care and understanding that transcends borders.

"These moments are not just about charity—they’re about showing children that they are seen, valued, and supported. It’s about proving that small acts of care can brighten even the darkest days,"

Through this celebration, we also gave children the opportunity to experience the joy of socialization—a vital aspect of their mental well-being, especially after the trauma many have faced. In Sweden, Ukrainian children are integrating into a new environment, and socializing with their Swedish peers fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion that is key to their recovery.

The Impact of Your Support

We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from our community, partners, and volunteers. Thanks to the generosity of the Mats Paulsson Stiftelserna, we were able to give over 300 Christmas gifts to Ukrainian children in Gothenburg and Västra Götaland. But these gifts were not just material items—they were symbols of care, love, and solidarity. They reminded the children that despite the challenges they face, there are people who are thinking of them and wishing them joy.

For us, the Christmas celebration wasn’t about the scale of the gifts or the extravagance of the event. It was about the collective spirit of support that everyone brought to the table. It was about making the children feel cherished, appreciated, and valued. And as we all know, these small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, making the world a little brighter, one person at a time.

A Year of Gratitude and Hope

Reflecting on 2024, we are filled with immense gratitude for the support of our volunteers, donors, and partners. Together, we’ve not only brought gifts and warmth to those in need but also built a community where hope can thrive. Every small act, every word of encouragement, every gesture of care has made a lasting impact, and we are proud to be part of this movement of change.

Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to our mission of building a stronger, more connected community for Ukrainian families in Sweden. We will continue to provide opportunities for healing, socialization, and integration, ensuring that no one feels alone or forgotten. We believe that, by coming together, we can continue to build a brighter future for all.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To all who have supported us throughout the year: thank you. Your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support are what make our work possible. You are the light that helps us build a better future, one small act at a time.

Let’s continue to share meaningfulness, joy, and hope together, because when we unite as a community, we can create lasting change.