Help Abeer and Mohammed Rebuild Their Lives in Calgary

Hello, my name is Shazia Awan-Qureshi. I met the Diab family when my children were invited to cook and deliver a meal to them just a few weeks ago (in November 2024). They had only been in Canada a matter of weeks, had very little to live on and were extremely worried about how they were going to survive.

Over a cup of Arabic coffee and dates, Abeer told me there is a very strong work ethic in her culture. They are taught to work hard and to stay busy from a very young age and it was very difficult for her and her husband to be unemployed. They are attending English classes and actively job hunting and just need a helping hand for a few months until they can start supporting themselves. I humbly ask you to join me in helping them. Please continue reading to learn more about them and their journey to Canada.

Abeer and her husband Mohammed escaped Gaza earlier this year with their sons Izmi (14) and Tayyem (10), and have arrived in Canada looking to find stability and safety.

In Gaza City, Mohammed worked passionately as a cameraman, while Abeer thrived as an engineer and pursued her studies in interior design. When conflict erupted, the family was forced to flee their home, enduring the hardships of living in tents, and at one point, Izmi was injured in an airstrike.

With the support of a sister-in-law, the family has now found refuge in the Tuscany neighborhood of Calgary. However, settling into a new country comes with significant challenges. They urgently need assistance with rent, utilities, and other essential expenses to establish a stable home. More than just financial support, Abeer is concerned for her sons, who are struggling with trauma from their experiences. She hopes to help them heal and adapt by providing opportunities such as adopting a new pet or enrolling them in soccer lessons. She noted Izmi lost his beloved pet bird when they escaped, and he would love a new companion.

Your donation can make a profound difference in Abeer and Mohammed’s lives. Funds raised will go directly towards 3 months worth of living expenses as follows:

Housing and Rent ($6300): Ensuring the family has a safe and stable place to live.

Utilities and Bills ($960): Covering essential services like electricity, water, and internet.

Daily Living Expenses ($1200): Helping with groceries, transportation, and other necessities.

Support for the Children: ($1500): Providing therapeutic activities such as sports lessons or a new pet to aid in their emotional recovery.

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings Abeer and Mohammed one step closer to rebuilding their lives and creating a hopeful future for their children. Please consider donating and sharing their story with others who might be able to help.

“All we dream about,” says Abeer, “is to make a good life for our children.”

Thank you for your support and compassion.