This past Thursday was no exception. Our Secretary General, Trude, was visiting, and the morning was dedicated to collecting donated furniture and household items to give them a second life with new owners.
A Morning of Giving and Gathering
The first stop of the day was at Elisabeth’s late grandfathers home, where she welcomed us with little Martin in her arms. She had carefully packed boxes filled with kitchenware, clothing, and furniture once belonging to little Martin’s great-grandfather, items that would soon find new homes. Next, we visited a local school that was donating high-quality office chairs no longer in use.
With the help of our partner, Tromsø Red Cross, and their dedicated driver, John Sverre, the van made several trips throughout the morning. Every stop was a reminder of the incredible generosity within the local community. Many contribute to giving newcomers a better start in their new home.
An Evening of Connection and Support
At 16:30, our amazing team of volunteers gathered at the Dropshop. Many of them have been volunteering there for years. The session started with coordinator Natalia bringing everyone together for a shared meal, with conversations flowing in Norwegian, English, and Ukrainian, a true testament to the inclusive community that forms when we work together.
At 18:00, the doors opened, and as usual, many visitors arrived to find clothing, furniture, and kitchen essentials. Among them was a young woman whose face lit up with joy when she found a suitcase. To her, it wasn’t just a suitcase, it was the key to a long-awaited journey home. After ten years in exile, she was finally going to visit her beloved homeland, Syria.
Dråpen i Havet in Tromsø often opens the Dropshop outside of regular hours. Just earlier this week, a mother with several children from Gaza had recently moved into a home and lacked even the most basic necessities. Or last Saturday, when refugees living many hours away from Tromsø took the opportunity to visit and find the things they needed, as no similar services were available where they live.
But Dropshop is more than just a place to find essential items. Some come simply for a chat, to experience a moment of warmth and community.
More Than a Free Store—A Place of Hope
Days like these remind us why Dropshop Tromsø exists, not just to provide essentials but to create a space where people feel seen, supported, and valued. Behind every donated item, every handshake, and every conversation, there’s a shared belief in humanity and the power of community.
Would you like to be part of creating a warmer community? Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every little effort helps us continue making a difference for those who need it most.
Join us in supporting refugees – because kindness knows no borders.