The Refugee Committee of St. John’s is working closely with the Venerable Bill Mous, Archdeacon of Niagara: Executive Officer &; Secretary of Synod to coordinate the successful settlement of the Akbari family originally from Afghanistan. The family has all their required documentation in order and is anxiously waiting for a flight from Pakistan to Canada.

The funds raised so far are $32,000.00. Here is the link to make donations throughout the year using this direct link to the Anglican Diocese of Niagara. https://niagaraanglican.ca/refugee-support/how-to-donate.

To track the donations, please change the box designated for from regular giving to other, and to indicate St. John’s Hamilton Sponsorship in the line below. If people are writing cheques, the memo line should say Refugee Sponsorship - St. John’s Hamilton.

Sarah Wayland and John Loukidelis have generously offered to house the family temporarily when they arrive in Hamilton. The primary task at this point is to find a permanent two bedroom rental which is preferably located close to a school, park and the public transportation system. There has been a positive response with people offering various household items. Please send me photos and descriptions of items to be donated for an inventory.

Please keep this family in your prayers for their safe arrival.

Thank you, Barbara Ruttan, Overall Coordinator