Last November St. Columba's Church held a fundraising dinner for Syrian refugees. With careful consideration and prayer we decided to support a group of Anglican churches and others in the Cowichan Valley who were just starting to organize to sponsor a family. The funds (almost $1000) were gratefully received as a big kickstarter. By mid July when news of the imminent arrival of Syrian refugee family the group had raised more than $26,000 of the anticipated $32,000 needed and by August 9 they were within $2000 of their goal.
News this week is that the Abo Aeta family has arrived. Father Samer, mother Subhia and three boys three boys, aged 4 years, 3 years, and 5 months. They are starting to settle into their house in Duncan, have met with the other Syrians families in the area, and are being supported by a wonderful group of local volunteers.
Grateful prayers that another family is safe in Canada.