It makes me proud to be a Canadian. There are about 20 sponsorship groups in Peterborough (population ~ 177,000) and another 20 in the surrounding area. They had a meeting at Trent University to share notes, talk about issues, collaborate and learn from one another. Over 400 people attended. They launched a website to share resources, to make sponsoring groups more self-sufficient and ultimately ensure the successful transition of refugees. The
website is here.
Not all Syrian refugees want to come to our strange land, but there are many with relatives already here. What was amazing is that one family, newly arrived Tuesday, asked to speak to the large group to thank them and talk about their journey. All this despite struggling with English. It bodes well for those who choose to come to Canada to find refuge.
