Charles Musonda came to Canada from Zambia in 2013 to build a new life. He became an integral part of our Church family and local community, where his warm smile and generous spirit have touched so many lives. Truly Canada has become his home and Winnipeg his community.

Three years into his studies at the University of Manitoba, he had kidney failure. His condition has taken a significant physical and psychological toll on Charles. He had to significantly lower his course load, but he persevered and is now ready to graduate. While receiving dialysis 3 times per week he continued to hold down a job and keep studying. As time went on, the cost of his treatments exceeded what is covered for International students in Canada. Delays with Immigration for his Visa renewal meant a lapsed work permit causing the loss of his job in fall of 2024.

We want to see Charles live and remain in Canada which has become his new home. Truly, Canada's health care system saved Charles' life. It is unlikely that he would be alive today if he had been in another country.

The situation for dialysis or kidney transplant in Zambia is far from ideal for his severe condition. There is extremely limited access to dialysis, with inconsistent availability through private clinics. Supplies must be sourced by the individual and there is no guarantee that they will be available. Should there be a break down in any part of the process, Charles would be at risk of death or severe impairment.

Charles is currently applying for permanent residency in Canada under a humanitarian exception. Nothing is guaranteed for Charles, and he is living in a constant state of uncertainty about his future and his life. He finds himself in between cracks in the system.

Had he not had kidney failure, Charles likely would have attempted to follow a similar path to many others who find their way to Canada as students, refugees, or immigrants. He would have wanted to work hard, stay in his new home, contribute fully to his community, and perhaps one day, become a citizen. This is a path that is challenging, but it is the story of many Canadians. This could still be Charles’ story.

We hope that Canada can be a safe haven for Charles. We hope that our country that has always welcomed the outsider, the immigrant, and the one in need, and indeed prides itself in its compassion shown across the world, can be a place where Charles could receive the care that he needs, live his life, and continue contributing to the wellbeing of those around him.

This GoFundMe will help pay expenses related to Charles' Permanent Residency application process, his ongoing medical expenses, and for living expenses while he is unable to work.

Please consider donating to keep Charles alive in his community.