Newcomer Family Thanks The Salvation Army in Calgary for Their Support
Like thousands of families each year that are victims of violence, “Jane” (not her real name) was forced to flee to Canada along with her children, with virtually nothing. Once she arrived, she turned to The Salvation Army for support with everyday needs.
Jane and her two children arrived in Canada in May 2022. They escaped their native Cameroon after losing their husband and father because of government persecution. She settled in Calgary without knowing much about the city or the country. Her priority was to keep her children safe by fleeing and hoping to build a better future elsewhere.
Soon after arriving, a member of the Cameroonian community in Calgary provided her with a few numbers she could call for assistance. One of these contacts was The Salvation Army.
“They have been of great help to me and my family. The Salvation Army was the first place that we went to. We came with nothing, and they gave us clothes and food. I am very thankful. It is something I will never forget,” Jane said.
With the help of her Salvation Army Caseworker, Ismail Hossain, Jane received clothing vouchers, food, bus tickets, and even assistance in finding places to stay. For many months it was a struggle for Jane to find proper accommodation for her and the children. After bouncing from place to place, Jane contacted Ismail to see if he could help her find a new home.
“She called me in distress, telling me she needed to find a new place to stay, so I called shelters all over Calgary until I was finally able to find one. She now lives at a house that hosts families,” Ismail said.
After nearly seven months since their arrival, Jane and her family are seeing more stability in their lives. Her children, two boys ages 14 and 10 years old, started school in early December. As for Jane, she is preparing for a meeting set to take place soon, which will determine her official immigration status. Receiving her official status will allow her to legally work in Canada and it would make her eligible for government support.
Looking back at her first few days in Canada, Jane says she doesn’t know where she would be without The Salvation Army. She says the organization’s members work very hard to ensure everyone in need is taken care of.
“The Salvation Army touches people’s souls. The first day I went there I was crying, but by the third day I was all smiles. I am thankful for the marvelous team they have,” she said.
With Christmas approaching, Jane and her children are set to spend their first holiday season in Canada. To make their time as special as possible for them, Ismail is providing them with some holiday cheer thanks to the Christmas Toys program.
“We will continue to help them as much as we can. In the coming days we’ll provide her children with some Christmas toys as well,” he said.
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign is currently under way. Donations to the campaign provide support to families in need this holiday season and throughout the year.
By Juan Romero
