Taimi is a Neighbour Mother from Lappeenranta , Finland . She is originally from Estonia , but moved to Finland because of a job offer . When her employment contract ended , Taimi thought about returning to Estonia . But , because Taimi ’ s son had also moved to Finland , they both decided to stay on in Finland .
Taimi first heard about the Neighbourhood Mothers ’ project through another Neighbourhood Mother . At first , Taimi did not fully understand what a Neighbourhood Mother did . However , Taimi decided to go along with her friend to attend a theme meeting for Neighbourhood Mothers at Sammonlahti . It was there that Taimi understood the role of a Neighbourhood Mother and thus began her own journey as Neighbourhood Mother .
Taimi is currently studying at Saimaa Vocational College . Self-effacingly she says , that she hasn ’ t done a lot as a Neighbourhood Mother . She told us how she helps other women in everyday life situations and said , " I once met a Russian woman on a bus . She had moved from Kotka to Lappeenranta and was unfamiliar with the town . And , because we were traveling in the same direction , I decided to guide her home from the bus stop . Then , it dawned on me that this was the exact kind of work done by a Neighbourhood Mother .”
She emphasizes , “ People do not always need help . It is important that there is someone who can just listen and be supportive .” Taimi is always ready to help women and families deal with Kela and sometimes even acts as an interpreter . Taimi values the voluntary aspect of being a Neighbourhood Mother as nothing is imposed or mandatory . Because the work of a Neighbourhood Mother is voluntary , Taimi feels that each Neighbourhood Mother has a genuine desire to help other immigrant women . Taimi says that being a Neighbourhood Mother has never been bothersome as she is able to identify her resources and helps others only within those limits . To future Neighbourhood Mothers , Taimi says , “ Join us and come bravely forward ! Don ’ t stress yourself while helping others . Just remember to be present , and as you go about your daily life , help others .”
Taimi , Thank you for understanding the true spirit of being a Neighbourhood Mother ! We wish you well as you continue to help the women around you .
Taimi is a friend to other immigrant women . She talks of how she lives in same building with a refugee family from Syria . Taimi has helped the mother of the family by being someone to talk to – a friend .