Leena's story – as a friend to someone who has moved to Finland

An article in a newspaper caught my eye, which mentioned that immigrants do not learn the Finnish language because they do not have enough contact with Finns. I decided that I could do my part to help with this and joined the Red Cross friend service.

I feel that we have become good friends. Together, we have participated in a Luonto-Liitto (The Finnish Nature Association) volunteer camp and gone blueberry picking in the forest, among other things. We have done things that I have enjoyed myself, while feeling that this has been the best way to introduce them to Finland and Finnish people.

Although there are sometimes difficulties, being a friend brings me much more joy and happiness. I have noticed that we human beings are ultimately so similar everywhere. Everyday matters, shopping, necessary household purchases, and knowing where to find needed items affordably are things where I feel I can help the most.

- Leena Suhonen, Kouvola branch