Big crowd expected at First Fredericton Friend(s) info session

The Multicultural Association of Fredericton isexpecting a packed session on Tuesday night for the inauguralinformation session ofthe First Fredericton Friend(s) program.

Bonnie Doughty, the association's community connectionsco-ordinator, says the program,designed tohelp the newcomersbecome acquainted withthe city, isgenerating tremendous buzz.

"We've been very busy.It's hard to keep up with the emails and phone calls and the work itself. It's exciting times," Doughty saidin an interview onInformation Morning Fredericton.

"It's amazing to see the ideas and engagement people in this community have offered to be part of this project," she said.

"People are saying, can we knit hats and mittens, can we donate toys, can we put on a concert, can we cut their hair for them if they need it when they come It's amazing the generosity of people."

Recruiting first friends

Tuesday's meeting will be a chance to delve into detail about it will mean to be a First Fredericton Friend(s)volunteer, from providing mentoring andtutoring or just being a good 'first friend.' There will be a second meeting on Dec. 8.

Doughty says the group would like at least two volunteersmatched with each new family that arrives. She's hoping the relationships will evolve into something with a deeper connection.

"People here are very friendly but it's hard to get into people's houses so with these First Fredericton Friends, it allows people to make these good, strong friendships and people become like their surrogate familiesthey become their aunties, and cousins."

Volunteers are required to fill out an application with referencesand undergo a security check.

The multicultural associationwill provide training, andDoughty says the program involves a big time commitment.

People will also need to understand the importance of privacy and confidentiality, as well as an understanding ofthe cultural challenges Syrian refugees might face coming to New Brunswick, she said.

"They'll learn about how the community works, and they'll learn about what it means to be a New Brunswicker," said Doughty.