MuniFin is supporting the children’s charity organization Hope with a seasonal donation. We spoke with Hope’s Executive Director, Eveliina Hostila, about the situation facing families with children in Finland right now.
MuniFin has named Hope ry (“ry” is short for rekisteröity yhdistys or “registered association”, a form of non-profit incorporated association in Finland) as the recipient of its seasonal donation this year, following an annual staff vote. Hope was founded in 2009 after a small group of mothers decided to help children and families in need. It has since grown into a nationwide network of more than 600 volunteers, working to make everyday life more equal for children in Finland.
“We can’t solve child poverty through our work, but we can alleviate the harmful effects that poverty is known to have on children,” Executive Director Eveliina Hostila describes the charity’s role.
Support is practical and immediate: Hope receives and distributes donated goods, helps cover children’s hobby fees and offers small moments of respite such as cinema tickets and other leisure experiences.
The most common requests are for clothing and everyday essentials, including hygiene products. Seasonal changes, Hostila adds, can be particularly tough on families with a tight budget, meaning many are unable to afford the outdoor clothing and shoes children need as the weather turns.
Donations help build a better future for kids and their families
Hope’s main fundraising months are November and December; much of the funding for the following year is secured during this period.
“We’re grateful for all kinds of donations. Direct financial donations make it possible to provide Christmas presents for many families, and to support the hobbies of children and youth,” Hostila says.
Contributions are truly needed as the number of hobby support requests has been rising lately.
“Our surveys show that when families receive financial relief in their daily life, it actually adds positive feelings: it brings hope for the future and joy at the thought that someone they don’t know cares for their well-being,” Hostila says.