Our initial goal is to help resettled families feel safe, welcome, and supported as they transition to their new home. After the initial settlement period, our main goal becomes supporting families to become self-sufficient. Through education, advocacy and companionship, we strive to support these amazing families as they get on their feet and share their talents, skills and hard work with their new community. How we do this:
COVER INITIAL BASIC NEEDS
– Help clean, stock and furnish apartments for incoming families
– Greet families as they arrive in their new home so they know they are not alone
– Collect specific donations for families based on their needs
– Provide weather-appropriate clothing for the family members in each new season for their first year
– Ensure that families have food before their food stamps are activated
-Act as a liaison and advocate for families as they get set up in their new environment (including school enrollment, government program assistance, landlord issues, etc)
– Help them navigate their new environment
PROVIDE A FAMILY FRIEND GROUP TO OUR MOST VULNERABLE FAMILIES
– Match up a resettled family with a group of volunteers who will offer a year of friendship, guidance and advocacy along the path to becoming self-suffiicient.
FACILITATE A TUTORING AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
– Provide a weekly program that includes ESL classes for the parents while the children get assistance with their school work, followed by a rotating enrichment program of either music, art or yoga/meditation.
PLAN OUTINGS AND EVENTS
– Coordinate day trips for the families to show them their beautiful country and allow them new, fulfilling experiences. Some trips include a day at the beach, a trip to the farm and a visit to the zoo.
– Host events to celebrate holidays or social engagements. This gives families an opportunity to build a community while getting an opportunity to relax and enjoy time with their family.
PROVIDE YOUTH SUPPORT
– Become a liaison between children and their schools
– Fundraise for specific causes such as sending children to summer camp
– Create social opportunities for children such as play groups and sports games