The number of people seeking help from Majblomman has doubled in just a couple of years, with most applications being for grants to purchase clothes and shoes.
“In the operating year 2020/2021, 80 people applied for a grant from Majblomman in Örebro municipality. Two years later, in 2022/2023, the number had risen to 160. The reason may be a combination of the tougher economic times and more people knowing that they can apply for money,” said Lotta Olsson, the chairman of Örebro County.
Olsson believes that the main reason for the increase in applications is the growing poverty among families with children. The money that comes in from the sale of May flowers goes to vulnerable children, and this year, 143 applications were granted, with a total of 381 children receiving help, and a total of SEK 663,500 being distributed. Most of the funds went to clothes and shoes, or summer activities and excursions.
Majblomman is managed locally by a board, and Olsson explains that only a small group takes care of the applications, with applications often coming from school counselors, family centers, or deacons.
Another important aspect of the May flower initiative is the involvement of children themselves. “It is important to emphasize the children’s involvement in this, that the children understand that not all children are equally well off,” said Olsson. The organization collects money by having children all over Sweden participate in the sale of May flowers every year and children who live in families where the money is not enough can apply for financial support.
The significant increase in applications highlights the critical need for support for vulnerable children and families, and local efforts are underway to help combat child poverty in Sweden. This includes fundraising concerts and collections for the poor in Örebro, such as “We care”, which is currently running and accepting donations until November 15.