Refugee response in Norway

Heidi works as head coordinator at Sammen Grønland (‘sammen’ means ‘together’ in Norwegian), which is a church andcommunity centre in Oslo, Norway. In 2022, more than 1,000 refugees from Ukraine came to the community centre seeking support.

‘I see so much strength and resilience in the refugees who come to us. They are doing their best in a situation that they should never have been in, standing tall on days with news that makes you lose your breath; when you find out that your loved ones don’t have food or electricity, or that a bomb exploded meters away. Instead of worrying alone, they seek people and activities that make you think about something else for a little while.

‘One day, gathered at church, a little Ukrainian girl started crying. She missed her father so much. My heart broke when I saw her draw her whole family, a picture of the three of them together again. I pray that her wish will come true. As individuals we cannot end the war, but we can be there for those who seek support and help.

‘We want to fight loneliness and create a community where people can find their place, maybe also find a home away from home, and a family when you feel alone. We are creating these activities and this community together, not just for the guests. Caring for others and meeting people with compassion is a way to share the unconditional love of God and share hope for tomorrow. We are so much stronger when we do things together.’

Heidi's story was originally reported by Randi Bjelland for Krigsropet, Norway.