The number of au pairs coming to Norway has steadily increased over the last few years. The majority of the au pairs in Norway come from the Phillipines and since 2005, the number of Filipino au pairs in Norway has increased tenfold. The intention with the au pair program is that young people shall experience cultural exchange through living with a host family abroad, but for most Filipinos it is a way out of poverty – for themselves and their families back home. Arriving in Norway, many are plagued by loneliness and few know anything about their rights. The Catholic Church is a place where young Filipinos find support, safety and togetherness. Many describe the church as a «home away from home».
