From the Heart

29 November, 2022 | From the Heart

From the Heart is a space for the reflections of our staff on issues that matter to them, to our network, and most importantly, to those we walk alongside.

This month, our accountant, Muriel Therrien, shares the moving journey of a newly-arrived Ukrainian family.

In the spring of 2022, Manitobans were told that there would be a first wave of refugees arriving in our province due to the conflict in Ukraine. My daughter Mélanie Therrien-Hébert, a social worker, volunteered with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress to help a family seeking a new home. A few months later, Mélanie was matched with a newly arrived family – a mother and her children aged 17 and 14. Hosting a family displaced by war was something I also wanted to be a part of, as it was an opportunity to make a difference.

Mélanie and I quickly realized that displaced families face many obstacles, including the challenges of language and looking for work, and choosing the right school and transportation. They also need help accessing healthy food, clothing and medical care, and with paperwork. We began by assessing the family’s most pressing needs. We visited Centre Flavie, a member organization of the Réseau Compassion Network, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, food banks and several other places to get clothes and kitchen staples. While we were able to find some items for the family, it was clear that we would have to call on our families, colleagues and networks of friends to meet the multiple needs that arose along the way.

The family enjoys their first event at the Centennial Concert Hall.

The mother was resourceful in finding an apartment for the family. She was motivated to learn English from the outset to facilitate her integration into the Manitoba community. With a background in nursing as well as management, marketing and economics, she was able to land her first temporary job in Canada, although it was not in those fields. Her 17-year-old son found work at the Red River Co-op near the family home, and her athletically gifted daughter made the volleyball team at her new school. It is truly inspiring to see this family’s determination to succeed and adapt to life in Canada, despite all the obstacles they had to overcome. Our common goal is simple – for this family to live a rewarding life here in Canada.

Word spread quickly and, before long, we received donations of clothing, fresh and canned food, gift cards and cash. We also received offers of jobs and English classes for the family, and even tickets for cultural outings. Some of the youth in the community offered to accompany the teens to the store or to their very first Canadian football game; a most warm and creative welcome for which we are very grateful. The most eventful and fun evening was Halloween – which the newcomers experienced for the first time. Dressed up in costumes, they went door to door and loaded up on candy. It was an experience they won’t soon forget.

A great friendship has developed between all of us, and it continues to grow despite our language and cultural differences. There’s no doubt that this family brings us great joy and has contributed significantly to our personal growth.

From their perspective, the family members recognize that a network has mobilized to help them, that it shows compassion and generosity towards them, and that it does its best to contribute to their well-being. As a result, the family seems to feel supported instead of alone or isolated.

Mélanie and I are truly touched by the dedication of our families, colleagues and friends. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the people who have taken the time to support us on this journey, and who continue to support this Ukrainian family, as well as many others.

As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child;” in this case,”It takes a generous community to support a family in need.” Our heartfelt thanks goes out to each and every one of you, and especially to our “little Ukrainian family” for showing us the true meaning of gratitude, appreciation, resilience and friendship.

•••

Are you feeling inspired and want to help this family? There are a few areas where they still need some extra support: chances to practice their English (aka a social visit!), opportunities to get to know Winnipeg by attending local events like holiday shows or sports game, or ideas for employment are all welcome. Please email communications@reseaucompassionnetwork.ca if you’d like to get involved!

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