Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
The Syrian Refugee Group is ready to raffle as they continue to be well on their way to raising enough funds in support of sponsoring a Syrian family in Fort St. James.
About $27,000 is needed before the process can even begin.
Donations are coming in and the group is thankful for all of the community support so far.
Having had a successful Ethnic Dinner on March 19, the next fundraiser to look forward to will be a raffle, and in the works is a ladies movie night at the community centre and a bottle depot.
The group’s executive committee has been set and training is also in the works and will be provided by the Central Mennonite Committee.
The sponsorship process is currently being run through the committee as they continue to answer questions and provide support throughout the sponsorship process.
The training will include information about the process, culture and language, expectations and financial obligations.
“It’s an opportunity for anyone to ask questions,” Vice-Chair Louise Evans-Salt said.
At the last group meeting on April 15, member Fatima Hatamleh expressed concern over the Syrian refugees who are currently living in hotels in Victoria.
It has been reported that many are depressed as they wait and are now having second thoughts as their hopes for a new beginning are fading.
Many of these people have government sponsorship already and all they require is an invitation to come to Fort St. James.
For anyone who would like to make a personal donation, they can do so at the Integris Credit Union in Fort St. James.
Cheques may be made payable to the Fort St. James Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Group.
Keep your eyes peeled for a great raffle with exciting prizes.
The next meeting will take place on May 11 at 7 p.m. at the Fort St. James library. (upstairs) All are welcome.
The Caledonia Courier continues to be a proud supporter of the Syrian Refugee Group of Fort St. James.