Happiness is in small good moments, even in the midst of hardship: baking cinnamon buns, doing laundry, peacefully decorating the Christmas tree before the holidays. Without volunteers, many such activities would be limited.

We invited the entire ETKL (The Federation of Mother and child homes and Shelters) staff with their member associations for breakfast at their chosen Sokos Hotel. Additionally, all member associations of ETKL will receive Kulta Katriina coffee and Segafredo chocolate as a token of appreciation and remembrance for the volunteers.

For some children and families, the Christmas season is the most insecure time of the year due to the threat of family violence. Last year, the Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters assisted over 23,000 seeking help, often families in difficult life situations. The number of children seeking help has increased this year as well, as the use of substances, domestic violence, parenting challenges, and mental health problems have reportedly risen in families with children over the past few years.

The Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters, along with its 30 member associations across Finland, employs approximately a thousand professionals. In addition, 1,700 volunteers work for the well-being of families. In 2022, volunteers provided almost 24,000 hours of support to families in various life situations. Volunteer support is a significant aid for coping and overcoming difficult situations.

”At Sokos Hotels, we believe in a better tomorrow. We want to bring happiness to more and more people both within and outside our hotels. The work of the Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters' staff and volunteers is invaluable for many families in times of crisis. We warmly thank them for their valuable work. On Volunteer Day, December 5th, we remembered them with a coffee moment in member associations and a calm breakfast session with a companion at Sokos Hotel," summarizes Jaana Matikainen, SOK Head of Travel Trade Concepts and Development.

”Often, both joys and sorrows are shared over a cup of coffee, and that coffee break often ensures a moment to catch one's breath. I am pleased that, in collaboration with Sokos Hotels, we can acknowledge the important work of these individuals and their loved ones," adds Susanna Koroma-Nyström, Meira's Customer Marketing Manager.

”Fear is a wise emotion; it knows how to tell what is not okay. I hope that families facing violence or its threat would dare to seek help, not persevering in silence. No one is left alone if they seek help. Positive change is possible, and support is available. Ensi- and turvakotien liitto's Secretary-General, Riitta Särkelä, succinctly captured perspectives on seeking help and assisting.

Do you want to be part of meaningful work?

Intimate partner violence doesn't end on its own. Learn more and make a Christmas donation to the Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters:

Christmas Donation - Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters