Among other things, Umeå has seen an increased influx of visitors since last summer. Now 90 lunches a day are served at Umeå Stadsmission, which is a doubling.
Before Christmas, there is a great need for both Christmas presents for the children and food.
– We have a good collaboration with grocery stores and have received a lot of food waste which we distribute and which becomes breakfast and lunch for visitors, says Sara Rosberg.
Handing out gift cards
In collaboration with Avion and several hotels in Umeå, gift cards are also distributed to parents who can then buy Christmas presents for their children.
Even in Skellefteå, there are more families with children asking for help, as it has been all autumn, according to Magnus Hammega, who is director of the Skellefteå City Mission.
– The people of Skellefteå have a big heart and want to donate. We would like to see more Christmas presents for adults and teenagers, he tells SVT.
Throughout the country, the number of families with children in need of help is huge before Christmas, according to the National Association of Sweden’s City Admissions, which exists in ten regions.
In the clip above, you can hear Jonas Wihlstrand, who is the general secretary, answer three questions about the tough economic situation.