As a result of the refugee crisis that emerged in 2015, public discourse—both in the media and in everyday conversations—became highly Following the refugee crisis of 2015, public discourse—both in the media and in daily conversations—became highly polarised, with a strong tendency to draw clear distinctions between “us” and “them”. Over the years, gentrification in working-class neighbourhoods of East Helsinki has fundamentally altered the social fabric of these traditionally working-class suburbs. We found ourselves in a situation where different worlds intersect but do not truly connect. Each community exists separately in its own bubble, making it hard to see beyond it.
The project originated from the need to create positive encounters, narratives, and shared memories at a time when polarisation and fears often shape our thoughts and actions. This gave rise to The Office of Caring Acts, which was first implemented in the shopping centre of our own home neighbourhood.
The Office of Caring Acts aims to bring together people who might not otherwise meet in their everyday lives. It is a low-threshold meeting place that offers the opportunity to be seen and heard in one’s own everyday environment. It is an intervention in public space that plays with culturally recognisable elements. It is neither a market café nor an election tent. No free buckets are distributed there, but free coffee and tea are. The Office is a discrimination-free meeting place where one can both receive and give small artistic deeds.
Work Group in 2018: Riina Hannuksela, Mari Hämäläinen and Jairo Acosta Lara
Work Group in 2019: Riina Hannuksela, Mari Hämäläinen and Pia Lindy
In Collaboration with Roihuvuori Association
Updated 19 Sep 2025