Hug and Svenska Kyrkan: A Partnership of Compassion and Action

On February 24, 2022, the world watched as Ukraine faced the devastating onset of a full-scale invasion. For millions, life was forever changed. In Gothenburg, however, a spark of hope ignited as people united to take action. Through heartbreak and determination, Hug and Svenska Kyrkan joined forces, creating a lifeline for Ukrainian refugees and laying the foundation for long-term support.

Where it Began: February 2022 – A Flag and a Promise

On the day of the invasion, a small group gathered near the Russian Embassy in Gothenburg. Amid grief, a collective promise was made: to act. This promise quickly took shape, thanks to the immediate support of Svenska Kyrkan.

Within days, the church opened the doors of Sjömanskyrkan, offering a space to collect and send donations directly to Ukraine. Donations poured in, and volunteers filled the church, reflecting a community's desire to stand with Ukraine.  

Building Hug: From an Idea to Reality

The seeds of Hug were planted within the walls of Sjömanskyrkan. Amidst the chaos of organizing aid, individuals came together, sharing ideas, laboring tirelessly, and forming connections. It was here that Hug transformed from an aspiration into a movement.

"My strongest memory of working with HUG is still Katja's words on the phone to me two days after the outbreak of war: 'Hi, my name is Katja and I am a mother with roots in Ukraine. We are some mothers who feel we have to do something for the people of Ukraine. Do you in Carl Johan's pastorate have a room to lend us?' A few hours later, she had the keys to Sjömanskyrkan  and that's where it started.

Anders Leitzinger, Vicar at Svenska Kyrkan

By March 2022, Svenska Kyrkan provided a more permanent space in Högsbo. This location became the heart of Hug’s operations, enabling the creation of services such as language cafés, soup kitchens, and a safe haven for Ukrainian families. These initiatives not only provided immediate relief but also fostered a foundation of trust and solidarity.

Empowering Lives: A Vision of Long-Term Support

The partnership between Hug and Svenska Kyrkan evolved from emergency response to long-term integration. A cornerstone of this vision was the Empower Ukraine (Empower UA) project, supported by the European Social Fund (ESF).

This initiative provided Ukrainian refugees with mentorships, practical training, and workshops, helping them navigate the Swedish job market and regain confidence. Svenska Kyrkan’s contributions to this program, from accounting to providing space, were instrumental in its success. Together, Hug and Svenska Kyrkan empowered individuals to start anew in Sweden, laying the groundwork for brighter futures.

Cultural Connections: Uniting Communities

Beyond providing aid, Hug and Svenska Kyrkan have created bridges between Swedish and Ukrainian communities through cultural events. From concerts and art exhibitions to the celebrated “Hug Day” events, these moments have fostered connection and understanding.

Building Community for All Ages

A critical element of Hug’s mission has been supporting families. Through the Huggis Project, children and caregivers find a safe and nurturing space for activities and socialization. Caregivers often share how their children gain confidence and adaptability for preschool, a testament to the project's impact.

Since 2023, Hug also provides language classes, mental health resources, and job market guidance, creating a comprehensive support system for Ukrainian refugees. Every day, the energy in Hug’s space speaks to its mission: connection, hope, and building brighter futures.

Looking Ahead: A Vision of Hope

Until spring 2023, Svenska Kyrkan’s Högsbo office housed Hug’s storage, filled with donations for Ukraine and essentials for refugees in Gothenburg. This collaboration demonstrated the unwavering commitment of the Gothenburg community.

As the war in Ukraine continues, so does our work. Together, Hug and Svenska Kyrkan show what is possible when compassion leads: real, transformative change.

Every step taken is a step toward a better future – for Ukrainians in Gothenburg, for our communities, and for the world. With unity and purpose, Hug and Svenska Kyrkan affirm that solidarity truly knows no borders.

Join us in building a future of hope and action. Together, we can make a difference.

‍