Member Newsletter (2/2025)
Welcome to Caritas Finland’s Annual Meeting and 65th Anniversary Celebration!
Caritas has been working to reduce inequality and spread love for one’s neighbor in Finland for 65 years. You are warmly invited to celebrate this milestone with us at our annual meeting on April 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the parish hall of St. Mary’s Church, Mäntytie 2, 00270 Helsinki.
At the event, we will share the results of the My Equal Life -project. The evening will begin with a presentation by Laura Koskelainen, followed by researcher Riikka Suhonen, who will share insights from workshops held in vocational schools. She interviewed dozens of young people who viewed the photographs of Bangladeshi photographer GMB Akash and read the stories of the people depicted.
The event will continue with the formal annual meeting, which is open to all. We will provide updates on Caritas Finland’s work, approve the 2024 annual report and financial statements, and present our plans for 2025. The current board’s mandate will continue.
During the evening, you will also hear about the new 2025–2029 strategy developed by the board, presented by Secretary-General Larissa Franz-Koivisto and Chairman of the Board, Bishop Raimo Goyarrola. This strategy outlines how Caritas will continue working to reduce inequality and spread love for one’s neighbor.
A birthday is always a good reason to gather, celebrate our work, and enjoy coffee, tea, and cake. You can participate in the annual meeting either in person or remotely. Please RSVP at caritas@caritas.fi. If you wish to attend online, request a link by emailing us before April 22.
We Are Looking for Caritas Ambassadors in Every Catholic Parish in Finland
A Caritas Ambassador serves as a link between Caritas Finland and their parish. Our goal is to have at least two ambassadors per parish.
Responsibilities of a Caritas Ambassador:
- Act as a liaison between Caritas and the parish.
- Share information about Caritas events and fundraising campaigns.
- Organize at least one Caritas event per year in the parish to introduce Caritas’ work. Ambassadors may also sell Caritas monastery products if they wish.
- Participate in training, which is available either online or in person at the Caritas office in Helsinki.
If you are interested in volunteering or becoming a Caritas Ambassador, please contact our volunteer coordinator: meisa.dano@caritas.fi.
Welcome to the Caritas family – together, we can help those in need build a better life.
Lenten Fundraiser – Bring Hope Close to You!
During Lent, Caritas raises funds for work in Finland. We have strengthened our collaboration with parishes to support low-income families, individuals at risk of exclusion, and those who are lonely. Help is needed for counseling, guidance, and financial support. Caritas Finland provides gift cards to those in need before Christmas and helps children and young people with summer camp fees. We hope more families can benefit from these efforts. The need for aid in Finland has been growing. The fundraiser runs until Easter, April 20.
Read more about the Lenten fundraiser on our website.
Thank you for all donations! Through collaboration, we can support people across Finland.
Upcoming Events
Easter Bazaar
📅 April 13, 2024 | ⏰ 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 St. Henry’s Parish Hall, St. Henry’s Square 1 A, Helsinki
Join us at the Easter Bazaar! Browse and purchase Caritas monastery products, including cosmetics and chocolates. Try your luck in the raffle or relax in the café. Learn more about Caritas’ work in Finland, which is supported by the Lenten fundraiser.
Events at the Caritas Office, Kuusitie 6, 00270 Helsinki
Surplus Food Waste Distribution
Every other Monday, 3:00–3:20 PM. Spring distribution dates: April 14, April 28, May 12, May 26, 2025. Food bags are limited to about 30 per session. Caritas is part of Helsinki City’s Stadin safka food distribution network. More information at ruoka-apu.fi.
Caritas Café and Extended Shop Hours
On café and shopping evenings, our shop stays open later. From 3:00 PM, social advisor Hannele Liukkonen will serve coffee and light refreshments. Next café & shop evening: Wednesday, April 9, 3:00–6:00 PM. May’s date will be announced later.
Remember the Caritas Shop and Sewing Service!
📍 Kuusitie 6, 00270 Helsinki | 🕒 Open Tuesday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🛒 Our online store is always open (shop website is in Finnish)
We offer clothing repairs and custom sewing services. The proceeds support Caritas Finland’s work. Please contact us in advance to schedule a visit: caritas@caritas.fi, subject line: Sewing Service
Thank You for Your Membership!
Membership is a meaningful way to practice love for one’s neighbor over the long term. This newsletter offers a glimpse into our activities. As a member, you receive a 10% discount in our online store. Please ask for advice to get a discount from laura.koskelainen@caritas.fi
Caritas Finland’s team wishes you a blessed and peaceful Lent.
