By Kim Deighton
Six weeks have passed in a whirlwind of activity as our sponsored family adjusts to life in Canada. The transition to a new community and a new culture has not been without challenges, and thankfully, not without plenty of humour.
Much progress has been made! September saw both mother and son off to their respective first days of school – one in elementary school, the other in daily English classes. Routines have been established. Doctors and a dentist have been visited. Shoes and clothing have been procured to face the coming winter. A household’s worth of Canadian appliances have been mastered (well, sort of), as well as the Canadian banking system with its cheques and debit cards.
Without a doubt, the most difficult task we faced this month was the search for an affordable, accessible apartment. The severe lack of affordable housing in Scarborough made it a great challenge. The process was exhausting but happily has ended successfully. Now our newcomer family can look forward to settling into a home of their own.
Through all this, Port Union Cares is continuing to raise money to support our lovely family during their important first year in Canada. Our next fundraiser will be a Victorian Tea on November 12. Mark it on your calendars! Tickets are $25 per person. Get your tickets early. From now until October 31 we are running an Early Bird Special – tables of four for $90 or tables of six for $135. Round up your friends and book your table! Come and enjoy a delightful afternoon of sandwiches, scones and sweet baked treats, all served with freshly brewed tea or coffee, music and raffles. Take the time to join us and help us make a difference in the lives of our newcomers.
For details on tickets for our Victorian Tea or to donate directly, visit: portunioncares.com or call John at 416-333-3321. Hope to see you there!