Boel Persson

"I want to show that there is hope"

- I wish we did not have to have a society like this. One where you have to lie on a park bench or break in somewhere to have a place to sleep. It’s not sensible that that's the way in the 2020s. Everyone should be allowed to have a roof over their heads and a decent life.

- I have worked here since 2004. I was first on the night shift, but it was closed down two years ago and after that I worked during the day. We have a cafe where you can come every day and eat a free breakfast, shower, and change clothes. Lunch is available for only 30 Swedish Krona. We play a big part in helping many vulnerable people. We distribute groceries to families with children and to those that are new to Sweden. And we’re generous with conversations. Many people need the social part, having someone to talk to. We are a gathering place where you can meet others.

- Most people think that we do a good job and often people wonder how we manage. We meet a lot of people in different difficult situations, so it is important to be able to let it go when you go home to be able to cope. But I like to help. That is my driving force and it always has been.

- 99.9 percent of those who come to us think we are worth their weight in gold and say that it is thanks to us that they can move on. Some are on drugs and you never really know what will happen. One day things can be great and then the next day they can turn a 180. If someone is very violent, you have to back off. I've been called both this and that, but the next day we'll talk about it. It has its charm and I see every day as rewarding.

- I have met many people over the years that things went well for. They’ve got their own apartment and a job. So I feel hope! That is what I want to let everyone we meet know, that there is hope. But it is important that the individuals themselves want it otherwise it’s not possible. We can never think that any case is hopeless, we should just keep trying. Maybe they’ll listen and one day understand what we are saying.