Refugee Sponsorship Program

Our synagogue has a long and proud history of social activism, including the sponsorship of  Vietnamese families during the “Boat People” crisis of the late 1970’s. The relationships that began decades ago continued through generations. Recently, we gathered together with the children and grandchildren of those refugees, all of whom are thriving Canadians.

In response to the Syrian refugee crisis, Emanu-El joined together with Congregation Kehillat Shaarei Torah to bring two families to Canada.

The first family is a Yazidi family of farmers from Northern Iraq - mother, father and five children - who are now settled in Richmond Hill.

In February 2019 we welcomed Syrian refugees Shervan, Nareen and three-year old Lamar who arrived after a few years in Iraq. After a short stay in Toronto, they settled in Guelph. Though no longer nearby, the congregation continued its relationship, helping them however we could.  Last October, they welcomed baby Evan.

Shervan, pre-Covid, was working in food processing and trying to establish himself as a videographer. Nareen was attending English classes. Lamar is in Senior Kindergarten. The whole family has integrated well into their new community.

For more information on how you can help, please contact Nina Diamond, co-chair Social Action Committee:

diamondn@rogers.com
416-402-0133