Newmarket Afghan Family Refugee Fund

Philip Smith and I (Marilyn Church) are leading a private sponsorship group to resettle an Afghan refugee family of 5 people to Newmarket, ON. We have recently been informed that the processing of our refugee family has been expedited. Although we do not have an exact timeframe, we anticipate their arrival soon.

 

Situation in Afghanistan

 

The Taliban took over Afghanistan a few weeks ago. Many Afghans are facing suffocating conditions as a result. We hear reports of summary executions, mass displacement, torture, and massive violations of basic human rights. Women, minorities, and those who collaborated with foreign troops are particularly at risk.

 

The family we are sponsoring are members of the long-persecuted Hazara minority in Afghanistan. They have also worked with foreign troops, human rights organizations, and international NGOs. They have fled the country as their lives would have been particularly at risk under the Taliban rule.

 

Canadian Program

 

Canada has announced the resettlement of up to 20,000 vulnerable Afghans to Canada. Some vulnerable Afghans have already started arriving in Canada with barely anything to call their own. Others have their applications in process and waiting for their departures. The family we are sponsoring is waiting for the completion of their processing and departure to Canada.

 

Resettlement in Newmarket

 

We feel very lucky to live comfortably and in peace in our community. We would like to extend our comfort and peace to this Afghan refugee family. There are very few things more valuable and comforting than providing a safe home and community support to those fleeing persecution. With the right support, refugees thrive and become valuable members of our community.

However, we cannot do it alone. We are asking for donations, large or small so that we can give them a warm Canadian welcome when they arrive!

 

Use of Funds

 

The funds will all be used for the following:

-Shelter

-Clothing

-Furniture

-Food

-School supplies, books, and toys for kids

-Any other use to help the family settle into their new life in Canada