As many of you know, Zabibu arrived in Canada in April 2025 and has been courageously building a new life in Toronto ever since. With the support of the settlement agency JIAS and a dedicated volunteer group from the Danforth Jewish Circle, she has taken on the many challenges of settling into a new country — including surviving her very first Canadian winter. Like anyone starting over, there have been ups and downs, but throughout it all Zabibu has shown remarkable resilience, determination, and grace.

We’re delighted to share that Zabibu is doing exceptionally well in her Personal Support Worker training. She earned a 90+ score in the in-class portion of the program and is now enthusiastically beginning her placement at a long-term care home. This placement includes a stipend; however, there will be a delay of approximately three months before she begins receiving it.

At the same time, Zabibu’s sponsorship funding concludes in April. While the settlement agency has been able to pre-pay some of her rent beyond that date, there will be a short but important transition period before Zabibu can be fully financially independent. During this time, she will need support to cover essential living expenses, including food, approximately 3 months of rent, medical and dental costs, and basic cellphone and internet access.

To help bridge this temporary gap, we are reaching out to ask whether you might consider making a contribution to support Zabibu during this crucial moment. Our goal is to raise $6,200, which would provide stability and peace of mind as she completes her training and steps into employment. Every contribution — large or small — truly makes a difference.

We also wanted to share that Zabibu is actively seeking part-time work while completing her course, including weekends and a few weekdays when she is not on placement. She is fluent in English, warm and personable, and brings significant experience in retail and hospitality management, having run her own restaurant, catering operation, and clothing businesses. She is also a skilled seamstress and cook. Zabibu is open to any part-time, minimum-wage position, though she would especially welcome opportunities working with seniors or children. If you have a lead, please send it to the contact listed below.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for considering your support. Your generosity would go a long way toward helping Zabibu soften her landing in Canada and continue building a stable, independent future. It would be received with deep gratitude.

Warmly,

Zabibu’s Support Group