Refugees headed to P.E.I. get outpouring of help

"Pleasantly overwhelmed" is how one volunteer describes feeling after offersof support from Islanders for Syrian refugees.

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As part of a multi-agency response called TheWelcome Project., a toll-free line was set up yesterday to gather information from Islanders who want to donate or help, and calls and emails offering help have been pouring in.

"As of this morning, they received 46 calls since yesterday afternoon," said Mary Hunter, the provincial coordinator for the refugee effort, adding there were dozens of emails and 53 new volunteers registered.

"What they have been saying is they want to help. Islanders have big hearts," said Hunter.

"We have had a significant number that have offered their time, offered their expertise as well as financial donations."

Staff from the PEI Association for Newcomers Association to Canada have been answering the calls and emails.

Hunter says the provincial group is also helping to work with private campaigns that are already underway including several GoFundMe campaigns.

The phone line is 1-844-237-7734. The email address is welcome@peianc.com