Sudbury Refugee Relief fund aims to raise $20K to support newcomers

Morning North4:15Raising funds for Sudbury's fourth Syrian refugee family

A group of Sudbury residents have formed the Sudbury Refugee Relief Fund. They hope to raise $20,000 to help support the fourth family of Syrian refugees to come to Sudbury. Reporter Samantha Lui spoke to some of the members of the fund's committee.

A group of residents are joining together to bring Sudbury's fourth Syrian refugee family to the city.

Many who are part of the Sudbury Refugee Relief fund are helping because they, too, were once newcomers to Sudbury and say theywant to give back because it stays true to the Canadian spirit of helping others.

Shah Nawazcame to Canada 40 years ago from India and has lived in Sudbury for 28 years. Hesaid today Sudbury is better equipped when it comes to helping newcomers settle downcompared to when he first arrived.

"Every year there are some new faces that show up and they need help," the president of the Islamic Association of Sudbury said.

"You know, finding jobs, getting information about the school system - all kinds of different requirements that any family that settles in Sudbury has."

Chris Nash, who ischair of the fundraising committee, came to Sudbury with her husband 50 years ago from Britain.

Based on her experiences as a newcomer, she said she wants to provide support to make it easier for this new family to settle in.

"We had literally nothing. And we were able to find work here, fund our education here and then contribute to the community," she said.

So far, the group has raised about $12,000 through sponsorships.

They hope to fundraise an additional $20,000.