Rise in demand for Lutheran Church’s diaconal aid reflects growing financial struggles, especially among young adults

The number of people needing assistance from diaconal work, a type of social service provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church, has significantly increased. According to church statistics, the diaconal work of the church has granted a third more assistance throughout the country in the first half of this year than in the same period last year. By the end of May, nearly €3.5 million in aid had been granted, compared to €2.6 million during the same period last year. More food assistance has also been distributed.

The Hämeenlinna-Vanajan congregation granted a total of €51,315 in diaconal assistance by the end of June. It is anticipated that the congregation will grant over €100,000 in assistance this year. Virpi Kylmälahti, the congregation’s leading diaconal worker, has noticed an increase in the need for assistance, especially among young adults. Young adults in their twenties are gradually requiring more support and help in their life situations.

There are many reasons for seeking aid. People often turn to the church when they have no other options and social security benefits are not enough to live on. Diaconal aid is typically small, such as a few tens of euros for grocery shopping. Young people seeking assistance may not have secured a place to study or a job. Other life crises or sudden illness could also lead to a need for support and help.

According to Kylmälahti, it is now more difficult to survive financially, especially if one has to rely on social security. Cuts to social security immediately affect people’s financial situations. People now have clearly less money for living expenses such as food, medicine, and clothes.

Diaconal work is funded by donations, grants, and church tax. The church can provide food packages and affordable or free meals to those in need. They can also provide payment commitments for necessary purchases such as clothing, and may pay bills. They do not ever give money directly to a person’s account or in cash. In addition to material assistance, diaconal work also offers emotional and spiritual support.