20 years of service for SOS Children's Villages

Photo: Birgit Fostervold

2024 is a big anniversary year at Kongsberg! In addition to the 400th anniversary of our city and the 60th anniversary of the festival, it is 20 years since Kongsberg Jazzfestival contacted SOS Children's Cities to collaborate and with a desire to give something back to the continent that had the roots of jazz music.

the song treasure chest reaches the million mark

Over these 20 years, the collaboration between the Jazz Festival and SOS Children's Villages has involved large parts of the Kongsberg community, and the children at Kongsberg have had an important role through both the Sangskattekista and the Children-helpers-children campaign. When the annual Sangskattekista concerts take place in week 8, where all 5- and 6-year-olds in Kongsberg participate, this measure alone can raise around 1 million kroner. We think that's impressive!

In 2004, Martin Eia-Revheim and the board of the jazz festival wanted to give something back to the continent that had the roots of jazz music. Pål, Kai and Ragnhild have continued their involvement with zeal and enthusiasm. For 20 years, this has provided a safe upbringing, school, food, medicine, play and joy for many orphaned and neglected children in one of the world's poorest countries!

DUGNAD GIVES RESULTS

In Kongsberg Jazzhus, a family house in the children's village in Blantyre, Malawi, 10 children have big dreams for the future. And there is more: 10 children in Malawi have received better care with contributions from this city. 000 years of effort, NOK 13 million, 4,5 children and a bucket of hope.

Many thanks for the effort from all partners in Kongsberg and all contributions!

DO YOU WANT TO CONTRIBUTE?

When all 5- and 6-year-olds sing at the Sangskattekista concerts in Kongsberg Music Theater on Thursday 22 February, the audience is encouraged to donate money to SOS Barnebyer and Kongsberg Jazzhus. Regardless of whether you are at the concerts or not, you can also contribute by tipping an amount of your choice Flip no. 24949.