Inverness County Welcomes Refugee Resettlement Committee Update

As you are aware, Don, Christiana and Israel arrived on October 2, 2006. Just 2 weeks later, little Donalda was born at St. Martha's in Antigonish, and has been growing quickly. Both she and Israel are the talk of the Port Hood, prompting smiles wherever they go.

The generosity shown to the Kalleys has been amazing. Folks have given food, clothing, diapers, monetary donations, and visits, and the ever present friendliness of the people in all of our communities has been truly a gift from God for the newcomers.

In late October, the CBC sent a camera crew to Port Hood for an interview with the Kalleys and committee members. This was a great experience, and when the segment aired later that week it was well received.

In early November the Cape Breton Sheep producers Association graciously donated $2,700 to our project and another $2,700 to L'Arche Cape Breton. Our thanks for this boost, and for all the donations which, when tallied, come close to the $15,000 mark.

On most Sundays the Kalleys have been guests at various local church communities, and we express gratitude to those who have kindly assisted with transportation and arrangements.

Don has enrolled in Young Drivers driver training, has passed his 'beginners', and will have his first driving lesson on December 14 with instructor Rodger Hart.

Hermina VanZutphen arranged for Bishop Lahey to meet the Kalleys on December 13th.

Also that week Margie Beaton's Global Geography Class from Dalbrae Academy came to the Kalley apartment and set up a Christmas Tree then hosted a party for them. The students have raised $500.00 and had gifts to present to Don and Christiana. CBC Radio was there for a taping to air near Christmas.

Our Year End Committee Meeting was held Wednesday December 13 at 7:00 pm St. Peter's Hall, Port Hood. Rev. Paul MacGillvray, Social Action Co-ordinator, Diocese of Antigonish, was our guest an expert in the Refugee Resettlement process of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). After the meeting at the Hall, a few members accompanied Father Paul to the Kalleys for tea so that he can meet the family the Diocese sponsored through their Sponsorship Agreement with CIC.