In Norway 92,000 children are growing up in families with persistent low income, that’s almost one in ten children in Norway.
– The figures are clear, still there are very many in Norway who live in poverty. To help, we are totally dependent on the Norwegians who give to the Christmas pot in December, says Elin Herikstad, head of welfare and development in the Salvation Army.
Nearly 30 million
In December the Salvation Army puts out 180 Christmas pots across the country.
– Every week we meet hundreds of families who are struggling to make ends meat. They have challenges to meet basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter. Leisure activities and holidays are often an impossibility, says Herikstad.
Last year Salvation Army received nearly 30 million kroner in the Christmas pots in Norway.
– We are incredibly grateful that the Norwegian people do not ignore the problem, but decide to help. It means a lot to many.
Relative poverty
Christmas Pots in Norway were first released in 1901 when the goal was to collect 2000 kr to distribute food pouches and coal for 400 families in the capital.
– A lot has changed since then and relative poverty has become a term that is becoming increasingly relevant in Norway. This means that for many of the children who grow up in poverty today life is in great contrast to the life their peers live. It may involve fewer choices, and exclusion of cultural and sports venues, says Herikstad.
– We are therefore concerned that we, in addition to helping with basic needs, assist children and adolescents with holiday offers, recreational activities and contributions to birthday celebrations for example.
Source: Frelsesarmeen/ Norway Today