I came to Canada as a refugee in 2018, ill and traumatized, with no family close by and two young children to take care of. I was fortunate to be accepted into the Sojourn House transitional housing program, where my children and I received immeasurable support. And I feel lucky to have benefitted from such benevolence.
Before coming to Sojourn House, I had never experienced such a degree of kindness; Sojourn House is family, with friendly and humane staff who are always willing to assist and never too busy to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. Sojourn House gave me support and encouragement when I had very little hope. With their help, I was able to access laudable medical attention and care at no cost. After regaining my health, they encouraged and effectively supported me through the IRB process. They facilitated my children’s admission into an excellent school where they were able to participate in community programs, such as the Regent Park School of Music. They ensured that we never felt alone or left out by making our Christmas, birthdays, and other festive days beautiful and memorable—even making Mother’s Day that much more special. No matter what, they always ensured that the kids had fun.
My children have immensely benefited from their various resources and programs for kids, such as their musical lessons and arts and crafts, as well as yoga and homework clubs. Through their mentoring and encouragement, I was able to set goals for myself and achieve milestones.
I successfully pursued and completed the Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario Certification program at George Brown College. I was also able to successfully complete my assessment as an internationally trained lawyer by the Federation of Law Societies of Canada (FLSC) and secure admission to pursue the law licensing program, which will enable me to be called to the Canadian Bar and be eligible to practice law in Canada.
Words cannot express my gratitude to the management and staff of Sojourn House, and from the bottom of my heart, I say THANK YOU for your kindness and support. My children and I can look at the future with a smile again. Sojourn House provides Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing services to refugees coming from all parts of the world. Newcomer refugees who have undergone difficult and traumatic premigratory experiences, including exposure to war, torture, violence, targeted persecution, forced migration, and family separation, need access to a safe environment. For over 30 years, Sojourn House has served thousands of refugees from all around the world, providing the best possible care, services, and programs tailored to effectively address their particular needs. With decades of experience, Sojourn House takes pride in being one of the first and largest refugee housing agencies in Toronto, and a leading organization in refugee care. By offering shelter, safety, and other essential services, Sojourn House is the helping hand and the umbrella of hope for refugees while they begin to rebuild a life in Toronto.
