The Julemærkefonden operates five Julemærkehjem in Denmark – two in Jutland and three on Zealand – and has helped over 80,000 disadvantaged children start anew for more than 100 years. Here, children become part of a safe community, and they receive a structured program with play, movement, healthy food, and teaching in small groups – all focused on enhancing their physical, social, and mental well-being.

– We are talking about children aged 7-14, and what they have in common is that they are not thriving. They have been subjected to bullying, are lonely, have low self-esteem, and high school absenteeism, says Thomas Elmegård, press and communications officer at Julemærkefonden.

The five Julemærkehjem help around 1,000 children and their families each year. A stay at a Julemærkehjem is free for families, but requires significant support each year from foundations, businesses, and private donors.

– Only 2.6 percent of the operation is funded by public funds. Therefore, we are completely dependent on donations from foundations, individuals, and businesses to operate the Julemærkehjemmene, says Thomas Elmegård.

Great need
More children are struggling today, and it is clearly felt at Julemærkefonden, where several hundred children are on the waiting list for a stay at a Julemærkehjem – a stay that for many becomes a crucial turning point in life.

– We know that a stay makes a noticeable difference and significantly improves the children's well-being. A year after the stay, most children experience less bullying and a strengthened belief in themselves, says Thomas Elmegård.

– Many of the children come with a feeling of not belonging. At the Julemærkehjem, they find a community and experience that they have value – and that gives them courage for everyday life again.

A stay lasts 10 weeks and includes school, movement, community, and personal development. At the same time, the whole family is actively involved, and for the first time, a targeted bridging and follow-up effort is initiated after the stay.

– We collaborate with the family, the child's school, and the home municipality to ensure that the positive changes are maintained and to help the child move forward after the stay. We also look at whether there are associations or networks in the local area that the child can become a part of, says Thomas Elmegård.