Think you could never get uprooted from your home? Think again!
This story follows Amena and Nizar, a young Syrian couple who, like many others, fled their war-torn country to build a new life in Canada.
Note: The names used in this story are fictitious to protect the privacy of those involved.
Leaving Everything Behind
When Amena and Nizar first married, they never imagined leaving their home in Syria. They had established lives, with Amena pursuing a career in education and Nizar with his own ambitions. But civil war shattered their dreams. Faced with the threat of violence, they made the difficult decision to leave their families and everything they knew behind.
Starting Over in Canada
Like many refugees, Amena and Nizar didn’t live in a traditional refugee camp. They used their savings to rent a small apartment in Jordan before immigrating to Canada through the Welcome Refugee program. Settling in Vancouver in 2015, they faced new challenges:
- Language barrier: Communication was difficult, especially for Nizar. Amena attended ESL classes to improve her English.
- Finding work: Nizar eventually found a construction job, but childcare became an obstacle for Amena to continue her ESL classes.
The Muslim Food Bank: Stepping In
The Muslim Food Bank provided more than just food for the Karam family. Their caseworker, Jannah, offered invaluable support:
- Housing: Jannah helped Amena navigate the subsidized housing system, securing them an apartment on Granville Island.
- Childcare: Jannah connected Amena with childcare resources, allowing her to return to her ESL classes.
- Mental health: Recognizing Amena’s risk of postpartum depression, Jannah connected her with a self-care program.
- Housing extension: When their rental agreement expired, Jannah’s advice helped Amena secure a six-month extension.
Success and Self-Sufficiency
Within months of arriving in Canada, Nizar’s job allowed the family to become self-sufficient, no longer needing financial assistance.
A Story of Hope
The Karam family’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of support. The Muslim Food Bank, through its volunteers like Jannah, played a crucial role in helping them rebuild their lives in Canada.