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In the face of growing economic and social challenges, the situation of many Norwegian families and refugees has deteriorated significantly. According to the latest FAFO report, half of people who requested food assistance in 2023 were doing so for the first time. This is an alarming signal that points to increasing demand for support in Norway, especially among families with children and refugees, including a significant number who came from Ukraine.
Alarming Findings of the FAFO Report:
The report 'Food aid på dugnad', commissioned by the Directorate of Labor and Social Welfare, sheds light on the changing landscape of food needs. Among the recipients of help, constitute the largest group people of Ukrainian origin, as well as a large group of Syrian and Norwegian origins.
Financial Struggles of Families: Children at the Center of the Problem:
The report draws attention to the fact that half of aid recipients live with children. The rising cost of living particularly affects people on low incomes and families with children, as emphasized by the director of labor and social welfare, Hans Christian Holte.
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First National Review of the Situation:
The study shows that it is increasing number of people using it from public benefits. Importantly, half of the people who requested food aid this year were doing so for the first time.
The unique situation of people with underemployment:
The report sheds light on the plight of people working part-time or occasionally. Even people working full-time are reporting a need for food assistance, which signals deeper structural problems in the economy.
Structural Challenges and the Need for Inclusion:
Tone Fløtten, research manager and author of the report at FAFO, emphasizes that food queues not only indicate financial difficulties, but also structural challenges, such as the need for inclusiveness of the labor market, housing and integration policies.
Cooperation of Volunteering with NAV: New Perspectives:
The Directorate of Labor and Social Welfare (NAV) has collaborated with Frivillighet-Norge to better meet the needs of vulnerable groups. Less than half of food distribution points cooperate with municipalities, indicating the potential for further synergy.
NAV Mission: Beyond Food Distribution:
NAV, as an institution responsible for social and economic security, faces the challenge of better understanding and responding to changing social needs. The FAFO survey aims to provide better assistance to people struggling.
The FAFO report not only highlights the growing demand for food aid, but also indicates the need for a comprehensive approach to the problem. Collaboration between different sectors, including voluntary and public institutions, is crucial to effectively manage these challenges and provide support to those most in need.
