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To overcome the results of Russian missile attacks Peab and Lambertsson have again donate crucial material for Ukraine. This time we have loaded two trucks, as usual forwarded by Volvo Defence.
In this transport the recipients will find:
- Construction equipment for job sites
- Light masts
- Drills, hammers, and other tools
- Electric generators
These electric generators can be moved where needed, making them useful for both frontline operations and support bases.
A huge thank you to Peab, Lambertsson, and Volvo Trucks for continuing to be reliable partners in our efforts!
As the project marks its first annual anniversary, it’s a moment to acknowledge the journey we’ve shared. This initiative began with an aspiration to address mental health needs and has grown to encompass 252 participants, over 1,300 hours of individual counseling, and 370 hours of group sessions, among other accomplishments.
Reflecting on this year, it’s clear that the essence of Better You&Me is found in the stories and contributions of those involved—every shared experience, every moment of support. These interactions are not just about numbers; they’re about the positive impact on lives, with 91% of participants recommending the project to others.
Our commitment remains strong. As we continue, let’s embrace the challenges and opportunities that come our way, fostering a supportive and inspiring community. Together, we’ll keep making strides towards better mental health and integration for everyone involved.
Thank you for being a crucial part of this journey.
Lambertsson has started a collaboration with the organization HUG (Help Ukraine Gothenburg). In a first stage, the company has sent 28 sheds and a larger number of electric tools and electric cabinets as aid to Ukraine.
- The collaboration with HUG is completely in line with our core values within Lambertsson, says CEO Carl Rülcker. I notice that this is appreciated by our employees and strengthens the community within the company. The equipment we send to Ukraine is one that has a long service life left, but where certain updates are required so that it can continue to be used in Sweden.
So far, the big contribution from Lambertsson has been sheds. All have been deployed along the front line, including in Kharkiv. There they are converted into field hospitals, field kitchens or simply a space where lightly injured soldiers can rest and recuperate for a few days. The stalls have been very popular and the demand for more units is high.
- We have done this as an experiment, without promises of continued support, says Carl Rülcker. However, since the reception has been so successful and appreciated, we have decided to increase our commitment to Ukraine. More sheds will soon be ready for transport, and it will also be relevant with other equipment.
The coordinator for HUG's transport to Ukraine is Kateryna Aleksandrova. She works everyday with logistics at the Danish company Maersk, but lives in Tjörn outside Gothenburg. She confirms that the help from Lambertsson is needed.
- The Ukrainian demand for this type of equipment is huge, she says. At the same time, we see a slowdown in interest in donating to Ukraine. Therefore, it is worth its weight in gold for us when large companies stand up and perhaps even show the way for others.
The next transport from Lambertsson to Ukraine will take place at the beginning of October, when it will mainly involve more sheds and various electrical equipment to secure the electricity network for the winter.
- The need is unfortunately great, says Carl Rülcker. Not least before the upcoming winter, which risks being difficult if large parts of the electricity grid are knocked out.
Over the past month, we have together with BRIS held five meetings to support Ukrainian parents in Sweden. These sessions have provided many with valuable insights into how Swedish society works for children, and how parents can feel more confident in their new roles here.
We’ve covered topics such as:
How family life works in Sweden and the unwritten rules that help make everyday life easier to understand.
The role of social services and what Ukrainian parents should know about the available support.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child, which is a key law for children’s rights in Sweden, along with questions and concerns from parents.
A big thank you to all the parents who attended, listened, and shared their experiences. Special thanks to Sara Hammar and Sara Odén from Bris, who guided us through each session with warmth and expertise.
Hug is now an Approved Donation Recipient HUG is pleased to be confirmed as a donation recipient organization recognized by Skatteverket!
Have you donated more than 200 SEK to us since September 5, or do you plan to do so in the future? Then you are eligible to get up to 25% tax deduction on your donation.
The Donation Page now has the option of built in tax deductions. If you donate through BankGiro or Swish manually however, you may submit your details to our Tax Submission Form.
If you choose to donate with tax deductions your data will be stored in accordance with the GDPR for the purpose of being submitted to the Swedish Tax Agency's KU65 form.
Hug’s Third Quarter Report: Life-Saving Aid and New Partnerships for Ukraine
Gothenburg, October 31, 2024 – Hug extends heartfelt gratitude to its partners and sponsors for their crucial support throughout the third quarter of 2024. Thanks to their commitment, Hug has been able to deliver vital aid to Ukraine, including essential supplies, ambulances, medical equipment, and impactful support initiatives. Below, we outline recent successes and partnerships, hoping more will join us in making a difference.
Hug’s Third Quarter Achievements
23 trucks carrying 171,146 kg of essential supplies, valued at SEK 7,590,000
6 ambulances and 6 casevacs delivered to Ukraine
Camp for 112 Ukrainian children in Sweden and camp for 110 children in Ukraine
Life-Saving Deliveries to Ukraine
During the third quarter, Hug dispatched 23 trucks filled with critical supplies to Ukraine, including medical equipment, diapers, and fire extinguishers. These deliveries were made possible through the generous contributions of Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Halland, Västra Götaland Region, and Sisjödepån. Special thanks go to Essity for their diaper donations and Alwico Brand AB for sponsoring fire extinguishers, enhancing the safety of both civilians and soldiers. Additionally, PEAB and Lambertsson Sverige AB have supported us with containers and essential tools for medical emergencies, while Volvo Trucks has been an invaluable partner, covering transport costs.
Ambulances and Casevacs in Active Use
Ambulances and casevacs provided by Hug continue to play a key role in evacuating civilians from dangerous zones. These life-saving vehicles were donated by Rotary, Deloitte, Region Kronoberg, Volito, and Mannheimer Swartling, making a vital difference on the ground. We are also grateful to Göteborg Majorna Frölunda Rotary Club for sponsoring another ambulance, further enhancing emergency care for those injured in Ukraine.
New Partnerships: PEAB and Lambertsson Sverige AB
This quarter, Hug proudly welcomed PEAB and Lambertsson Sverige AB as new partners. Their generous sponsorship of 42 containers and tools, such as metal cutters and automatic hammers, has strengthened the support for Ukrainian soldiers at the frontline.
PEAB and Lambertsson have quickly become invaluable collaborators, and we look forward to expanding our joint efforts.
Hug Now a Certified Donation Recipient
Hug is now a Certified Donation Recipient by the Swedish Tax Agency, meaning donors can receive a 25% tax deduction for donations, up to SEK 3,000 per year. We hope this makes it easier for even more people to support our vital efforts in Ukraine.
Better You&Me Celebrates One Year
Our psychosocial support project, Better You&Me, which provides assistance to Ukrainian refugees, celebrated its first anniversary with a powerful event on World Mental Health Day 2023. The project has grown into a vibrant community, with 342 participants and over 1,300 hours of individual counseling, 370+ group session hours, 4 retreats, and 24 public lectures. Special thanks to Mats Paulsson Foundation for making this project possible.
Support for Ukrainian Children
This summer, Hug hosted a camp for Ukrainian children on Styrsö Island, in collaboration with Voices of Children in Ukraine. With generous support from Jula, The Church of Sweden, Embracer Group, Göteborg Majorna Frölunda Rotary Club, AVIX - Solme, Cederquist Law Firm, FSN Capital Partners, and Stockholm Cathedral Parish, we created a safe and memorable summer experience for these children. Special thanks also to Tjörn för Ukraina for organizing a joyful day for 30 Ukrainian children.
Impact of Donations
Every donation has an incredible impact. Thanks to your support, Hug has dispatched 23 trucks of essential supplies to Ukraine, delivered 6 ambulances and 6 casevacs, organized summer camps for 222 Ukrainian children, and continued essential healing work with adults through the Better You&Me project.
We thank our partners and donors who make these initiatives possible.
For more information, please contact: Email: contact@hug.ngo Follow us on social media for the latest updates on our work in Ukraine.
"It gives opportunity to forget about bad things in your life, about the war for some time. For me, it is a moment of unity”, says our attendee Yulia
💙 Hug's project Better You&Me offers a safe space for those carrying the traumas of war to heal and recover. Our retreats focus on both mental and social health, which is crucial for long-term well-being.
🌳 During the retreat, participants from Ukraine engage in activities like painting and body exercises, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for creative expression. Speaking their native language enhances community and safety, allowing them to share experiences freely and deepen their sense of belonging.
✨ By creating a sanctuary for healing and community, we help participants grow and build a brighter future.
We sincerely thank PEAB and Lambertsson for their generous donation of FIRST FOUR of many containers that are already in Ukraine and provide shelter in the areas most affected by the war. PEAB's and Lambertsson's unwavering commitment to supporting Hug's mission is a testament to their dedication to supporting Ukraine during these challenging times.
Vital Support from our new donors, PEAB Bostad and Lambertsson Sverige AB.
Hug will continue to share updates on the containers' use in Ukraine and communicate about further deliveries. PEAB and Lambertsson have quickly become strong bricks in our work, and we look forward to ongoing collaboration.
We encourage all Swedish businesses to reach out to us. Together, we can find meaningful ways for you to contribute and support Ukraine.
On August 31 2024, Hug organized a panel discussion during Frihamnsdagarna, focusing on mental health support for Ukrainian refugees in Sweden.
After 2.5 years of flexible and responsive efforts in housing, language education, and job market integration, Hug has now shifted its focus to promoting mental health through the project Better You&Me, which has been running for just under a year with 250 participants. The panel discussion highlighted the challenges brought by war trauma and explored how we can create a safe environment in Sweden where Ukrainians can heal and thrive.
Inclued in the panel is:
Emma Ihre – Moderator for the panel discussion. Head of Sustainability, Embracer Group. Expert in social sustainability and corporate responsibility.
Katja Blank - Doctor and initiator of Help Ukraine Gothenburg (HUG). Katja has been a driving force behind HUG's efforts and support for Ukrainian refugees in Gothenburg.
Yaroslava Schven - PhD in psychology, team leader for psychologists at HUG. Specializing in trauma and mental health.
Marika Palmdahl – Priest and parish priest in Carl Johan's pastorate. Experienced in integration and religious dialogue.
Oksana Shmulyar Gréen – Docent in Sociology and researcher at the Department of Sociology and Work Science at the University of Gothenburg.
Katja Blank begins by highlighting Hug's greatest strength: their quick and efficient response to migrants' needs. She explains how Hug early identifies and meets the challenges that arise when people arrive in Sweden.
Emma mentions that there is a great need for Hug's help and asks how the prioritization of the Better You&Me project contributes to meeting these needs.
“There are very urgent needs here and now, but there are also long-term needs, and mental health is incredibly important for us to be able to continue living from here. It is a long-term investment in our well-being and in this community,” says Katja Blank.
Oksana Shmulyar Gréen describes the major challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees in Sweden, where lacking social structures and uncertain reception conditions create obstacles for integration and well-being. She points out that Sweden’s reception has been more restrictive compared to other Nordic countries, which creates uncertainty and forces refugees to constantly adapt.
“[...] it’s very difficult to learn new things when you are constantly stressed and worried. It’s difficult to claim your rights, because you don't know if you will be allowed to stay here after 2026 or not." says Oksana Shmulyar Green.
Ukrainians in Sweden often live in constant worry for their families back home and struggle with temporary and low-paid jobs that don’t match their qualifications.
Emma Ihre adds that this underutilization of skills is costly for both the individual and society, as talented people aren’t given the opportunity to contribute fully. Oksana emphasizes that these challenges don’t only apply to Ukrainians, but also to other refugee groups, and that a temporary situation makes it difficult to establish a safe and long-term establishment in Sweden.
Yaroslava Schven talks about HUG's Better You&Me project and their work with psychological support for Ukrainian refugees. During the project, which has been going on for just under 1 year, approximately 250 participants received support through individual consultations, group activities and psychological diagnostics. Their research shows that many experience high emotional stress, with 44% feeling burnt out and 35% having suicidal thoughts.
“And that’s because it’s a double trauma. It’s the trauma of the war and the trauma of fleeing and adapting to a new place. They just have to adapt to society, which is incredibly difficult,” says Yaroslava Schven.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the project has led to progress, such as improved emotional stability and increased socialization.
Marika Palmdahl reflects on the changes in the Swedish social contract, where public institutions in Sweden previously took responsibility for social protection and compassion, while non-profit organizations acted as a complement. Today, civil society and non-profit organizations have taken on a more prominent role, especially after the refugee waves in 2015 and 2022, when much of the support for newcomers shifted to these stakeholders.
She also emphasizes the important collaboration between HUG and the Church of Sweden, where one contributes stability and resources, while the other adds flexibility and understanding of the needs of newcomers. In conclusion, she highlights recent years' changes in asylum law;
"We believe and think that when a refugee comes here, then Sweden sort of arranges it", says Marika Palmdahl. "It [asylum law] has really changed so significantly, so all refugees today are only here for a limited time. You sort of don't prepare for someone to stay and have a good life here."
Oksana Shmulyar Green highlights the deep psychological stress Ukrainian refugees experience due to constant uncertainty about their future. This uncertainty affects all aspects of their lives, including housing, work, children's education and legal status, making long-term planning difficult. Their situation is incredibly complex and stressful. They must navigate a new society while living with constant worry and fear for the future.
“[...] you live in total stress and anxiety and are surrounded by a society that lives its life as usual. That duality is enormously stressful because you can't really understand - What is my body? What is my brain? Am I here just like everyone else?” says Oksana Shmulyar Green.
Emma Ihre adds that the complex reality of refugees is often overlooked by those around them, who may see their situation as a success story once they have found housing and work. However, the reality is very complicated and characterized by shame and isolation, and many refugees avoid burdening their relatives in their home country with their difficulties, further complicating their situation.
Katja Blank emphasizes the importance of clearly defining challenges in our current situation and moving quickly to find concrete solutions.
“This isn’t a problem confined to Ukraine or the Middle East. All wars are everyone’s wars, and it requires responsible politics moving forward,” says Katja Blank. “It demands a holistic approach. It requires us to start having real conversations with each other, and it requires that we give all of us stakeholders out there the opportunity to do this work together.”
Katja calls for decision-makers, such as Ulf Kristersson, to take the time to reflect on what kind of society their politics are building and how they can better support civil society. She believes that current efforts from the government are insufficient and that it is necessary to give civil society both financial and structural resources to be able to fill the gaps that the government has left. She concludes by expressing a hope that together we can create a better and more responsible world in the future.
Emma concludes the panel discussion by emphasizing that mental illness resulting from war is as serious as physical injury and requires great resources. She calls for a greater commitment from Swedes and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting the non-profit forces that help refugees and to give them the resources they need for their work.
“Everyone has a responsibility. Uffe is responsible, but so is the rest of the government. It’s the business sector, it’s civil society, it’s all of us here and those we know. And as the saying goes, no one can do everything, but everyone can do something,” says Emma Ihre.
A big thank you to our amazing panel participants who came and contributed with their insights and dedication!
We at HUG are honored to be recognized by PwC during their company-wide event in Gothenburg for their 2700 employees. Together with business goals for the year, PwC put people at the centre stage - focusing on building trust, self-leadership, inclusion, and appreciation as the foundation for a strong work culture and innovation.
We're deeply grateful that during this inspiring gathering, where they broke a world record and made a significant community impact, PwC chose to support our Ukraine relief efforts with a donation to HUG.
This exemplifies the kind of leadership that creates real change. When companies recognize that humanitarian support is part of building a better world, it amplifies our impact exponentially and shows that business success and social responsibility go hand in hand.
Thank you, PwC, Marie-Anne Brändström, Måns Liljenlov, Katarina Roddar, Christina Lindskog, Malin Jakobsson, and everyone involved, for your trust and partnership. Your support ensures we can continue delivering essential aid to Ukraine.
We're proud to stand together for a more resilient world.
For many children in Ukraine, the war has taken away not just their homes but also their sense of safety, stability, and childhood. At Hug – Help Ukraine Gothenburg, we believe that every child deserves more than just survival—they deserve joy, adventure, and the chance to dream of a future beyond war.
During summer 2024, thanks to support from Sweden, 50 children affected by the war were able to attend a 12-day rehabilitation and adventure camp in western Ukraine, near Lviv. These children—many of whom have lost parents, lived under occupation, or been forced to flee their homes—were given something priceless: a break from the realities of war and a chance to heal through nature, physical challenges, and new friendships.
"There are definitely children here from Dnipro, Kharkiv, Kyiv, there are those who are already Lviv residents, because they are internally displaced persons. We were able to deal with the social category thanks to our benefactors, because they supported it financially. They [Hug] fully paid the cost of the camp for each child," said Taras Biloshitsky, coach at the camp.
A Safe Space to Grow
Hug has been working with the Manivtsi tourist camp for two years, ensuring that children who have endured unimaginable hardships have access to meaningful rehabilitation programs. This isn’t just about providing a fun summer experience. It’s about giving them the tools to rebuild their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging.
Throughout the camp, the children were guided by experienced instructors in outdoor activities that helped them grow in a safe and supportive environment. They climbed rocks, cycled through forests, paddled rivers, and explored caves—each challenge teaching them teamwork, perseverance, and trust.
Evenings were spent gathered around a campfire, sharing stories, laughing, and simply being children again. Without the constant stress of war and displacement, they could, for a little while, focus on something else: adventure, friendships, and the simple joy of playing outside.
Ihnat’s Story: From Occupation to a New Future
One of the children could participate in the camp for free, thanks to Hug, was Ihnat from Vovchansk. His hometown was occupied early in the war, forcing his family to live under extreme conditions. When the city was finally liberated, the situation was still too dangerous, and his family had to relocate to Kharkiv. Like so many other children, Ignat has had to grow up too fast, adapting to a new reality filled with uncertainty.
"I like everything here. I want to come next year as well, if there will be an opportunity", says Ihnat.
For many of the children at the camp, this was their first time in a long time that they could just be themselves—without fear, without worry, without war.
More Than Just a Summer Camp
The Manivtsi camp is built on strong values, reinforcing discipline, resilience, and pride in Ukrainian culture. The program is strict but supportive, ensuring that every child leaves with new skills, confidence, and a deeper connection to their heritage.
Children are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, learning practical survival skills, leadership, and teamwork. There are no phones, no social media—just nature, adventure, and human connection. The experience is physically demanding, but every challenge is met with encouragement, support, and the belief that they are capable of more than they think.
The goal is not just to entertain them for a few weeks. It’s to give them something lasting—tools to help them navigate the hardships they continue to face back home.
A Long-Term Commitment From Sweden to Ukraine’s Future
At Hug, we know that one summer is not enough. That’s why we are committed to continuing our work, expanding our programs, and ensuring that even more children have access to camps like this next year.
Swedish solidarity has always been about standing up for those in need. This summer, it meant giving children like Ignat a break from war—a chance to heal, grow, and dream again.
With your help, we can continue this work. Every contribution makes a difference. Every child deserves a future filled with hope.
As the summer comes to an end, we are still happy to reflect on the unforgettable memories created at Styrsö summer camp!
We offered children a week of fun, learning, and unforgettable experiences on the beautiful island of Styrsö. With outdoor activities, creative workshops, and nutritious meals, the camp provided a safe and joyful environment for kids to explore, make friends, and create lasting memories.
Your contributions have really made an impact on the kids, and we couldn't have done it without you! Thank you for helping us create unforgettable memories for these amazing children! 🎉
Continue to support us - even a small contribution can make a big difference!
Do you want to join and support our work with children?
Important topics were discussed, such as social security numbers, population registration and the establishment program, as well as changes in the law that we previously highlighted on our channels.
Maria Melnyk represented Hug, and we invited the City of Gothenburg, represented by Josefin Lindahl and Jenny Dahlström, Folkuniversitetet Gothenburg, represented by Milana Arslanova, and the Employment Agency, represented by Eva Hallberg.
We also talked about how to more easily enter the labor market in Sweden, including Jobbsprånget as a good catalyst into working life.
Thanks to everyone who participated and made this event possible! We look forward to more fruitful meetings in the future.
The project Better You&Me 2.0 continues to change Ukrainians' attitudes towards their mental health in Sweden and is shaping a culture of caring for one's emotional well-being. This is something new for Ukrainians here. The retreat has become one of the favorite formats for Ukrainian women in the Västra Götaland region. In this way, they get their first experience of taking care of their mental health and see how it has a positive impact.
On the islands of the Gothenburg archipelago, far from the city and the hustle and bustle of everyday life, young women from Ukraine learn to work with their emotions, thoughts, and worries through bodywork (mindfulness) and creativity (art therapy). Like the rest of the Better You&Me 2.0 project's events, the retreat helps Ukrainians develop the habit of taking care of their mental health.
This is a significant contribution by Hug and our partners, the Church of Sweden and the Mats Paulsson Foundations, in shaping a healthy society in Sweden. Thank you, you are changing the lives of Ukrainian refugees in Sweden.
We are thrilled to have had the first part of our summer camps on June 17-28 at Huggis! Thanks to your support, we were able to provide many children with fun days with healthy and tasty food, and filled with lots of activities
The children got to spend a day by the pool, visit museums, dance, eat ice cream, and much more! Everything to let the children just be children. Huggis is our safe haven where we prioritize each child's well-being and promote their development through play and learning.
Arts at Huggis.
Visiting Universeum.
Thank you to all parents and our amazing participants for being part of Huggis! The next camp will be held on Styrsö island in July. We look forward to even more wonderful moments together!
You can donate directly our child rehabilitation efforts here.
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