CLICK ON THE IMAGE to read an article on our initiative in the Vancouver Sun (Dec. 2015)
Last fall delegates to the False Creek South Neighbourhood Association voted to establish a Refugee Sponsorship Committee (RSC) with a mandate to pursue the sponsorship of a Syrian refugee family.
Following on the initiative of Committee chair Kathleen MacKinnon, several FCSNA delegates, joined by many other community residents, set themselves the task of turning that decision into action. Fundraising began in earnest in November and by January the amount raised was already approaching the goal of $40,00. The RSC, almost overwhelmed by the very generous neighbourhood response, is now asking supporters for pledges rather than outright donations. Anticipated costs are known but other expenses (eg dental care) may yet require a resumption of fundraising.
One of the greatest obstacles – finding an affordable place to live for this family of four (2 adults, a pre-schooler and baby) – was finally overcome through an offer of a sub-let from a member of one of our neighbourhood housing co-ops. With the approval and support of the co-op board, a sub-let of a 2-bedroom unit has been made. This will be for a period of 12 months, effective February 1.
With housing in place and with the very generous donations of all the furniture and home furnishings the family will need in their first year, the Committee has its major tasks nearing completion. All that’s presently missing is – The family.
It seems that the wheels of sponsorship turn more slowly than expected. The family’s circumstances and present location in a refugee camp are now known, but there is still no confirmation of their arrival date, which may not be known until a day or two before they come. It’s a relief, however, that when they do step down at YVR, both a home and a welcoming community will be waiting for them.
Please find more information on the Refugee Initiative here: http://www.falsecreeksouth.org/rsc/
Read more news here: http://www.falsecreeksouth.org/news-minutes/