Bowen’s greatest attribute is it’s community. It is fundamental to our sense of well being. It’s our collective priority. With that knowledge we have the capacity to comprehend intrinsically what the loss of one’s community would mean to one’s sense of safety, identity and connectedness to the world.
Fifteen months ago, we, as an island put this collective ethos into practice by raising the means to sponsor a refugee family of seven from Syria. On March 2 the Ali family touched down in Vancouver. Chukri, Malika and their three young children aged five, three and one, in addition to Chukri’s younger brothers were greeted by their brother Shemdin and his family.
Shemdin came to Canada as a government sponsored refugee four years ago. He has not been able to rest or settle in his new country knowing the danger that his brothers were living in. Four brothers and their families are now safe, together, and at peace.
While this reunion was in the works, Bowen Islanders helped to address the practicalities of resettlement. Beautiful, thoughtful household donations have been gifted. Alan Mills of Bowen Freight stepped up and has offered its transportation and moving services for free. Housing has been secured for the two younger brothers in Burnaby, within walking distance of Shemdin’s house. Peter of Bowen Freight made sure the brother’s apartment was ready for their arrival.
Housing for Churki’s family has not yet been found. Currently they are staying with Shemdin. There is a standing offer by the McCullum’s on Bowen to host the family until a place is found in Burnaby. As these are early days in the family’s settlement in Canada, it is uncertain if they will come to Bowen while the search for permanent housing continues.
The 30/30 Project is Bowen Island’s organizational clearing house for the Ali family’s resettlement. We know that while our capacity as a community is great, our infrastructure is not. It is with this in mind the 30/30 Project partnered with St. Andrews Wesley Church in Vancouver to coordinate the sponsorship process. For those inclined, please listen for the call for volunteers, household donations, and as always financial contributions (held at the credit union with a free tax receipt!).
Information can always be found on the 30/30 Project Facebook page. Bowen Island’s spirit of generosity has enabled a family to move beyond the label of refugee to citizen. You have become part of their story in how they became Canadians.
