Starting over in Canada
How did you celebrate Canada Day? In Abbotsford we had hot, sunny weather, a vibrant parade and family events that culminated in spectacular fireworks! Our community hosts threw a party for Inasmuch residents and their families. Youth from South Abbotsford church made the event epic! They planned games and cooled the kids by spraying them with the hose. Everyone ate their fill of hot dogs, watermelon, corn on the cob and cake - a truly Canadian bbq!
“I can’t overemphasize the community I found in Inasmuch. I have a network now. The staff have become my friends. They helped me find a Bible-believing church and led me to resources where I can volunteer. I found my belonging in Abbotsford through gaining relationships, going to school and volunteering.”
Our lakes, mountains, parades and fireworks aren't the only reasons we love our home and native land. We are also the true north, strong and free. We rattle off these lyrics before sporting events and ceremonies, but no one is more attuned to the meaning of freedom than Refugee Claimants. They fled corruption, war and violence in their country. They left everyone and everything, spending every penny to get to our border. They claim asylum and realize the steep uphill journey that still remains.
We provide a safe place to rest. We help them heal from trauma and loss, connecting them to resources for re-building mental, spiritual and physical health. They tell us how mind blowing it is that in Canada, we can trust the police and go to them for help. We can vote for our government officials. We can worship without punishment. We are innocent until proven guilty and have access to the legal process.
Thank you for donating your time, talents and treasures to provide wrap around care for vulnerable refugees. They are renting apartments, finding work, contributing to the community and, step by step, becoming Canadian!