*UPDATE* September 2022
A long and arduous journey is coming to an end. Jean, our friend, Rwandan peacebuilder and now Canadian resident, left his beloved home of Rwanda in May 2018. In 2017 and 2018, he experienced threatening situations due to his pro-peace and anti-corruption initiatives. He was afraid for his life and that of those he loved. Canada and our community provided a safe haven for him but unfortunately, his family could not come at the same time. They reached safety in another part of Africa. They maintained contact daily and kept the family connection alive throughout these past 4.5 years.
Now they will be reunited. Grace and his 3 beautiful boys will be arriving in Canada in October. Since the family considers Arnprior as their Canadian home community, the family will come to Arnprior right after landing. They will spend 2 + weeks in Arnprior to orient and meet all of you who have provided love and support. After that, they will return to Waterloo Region where Jean has been working for organizations that support refugee resettlement and community-based research. The family will reside in Ayr Ontario and begin their Canadian lives there.
Arnpriorcares, is an initiative organized by Arnprior community members and backed by 4 church communities, Emmanuel Anglican Church, Gateway Pentecostal, Grace St. Andrew’s United Church and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Arnprior Cares will support Jean’s family as they are settling in and integrating into Canada. Donations to financially support the family in their first year in Canada would be appreciated. Please see the website for methods of donation.
Household items are needed. If you can provide items contact Theresa Dunn. Her contact is below.
Arnpriorcares invites Jean’s friends and the public to come out to a Meet and Greet for his family at the CEC, 269 John St. N. Arnprior, on Sunday October 16, 2022, anytime between 12pm and 3pm. For further information, Please contact Theresa Dunn at dunn2propety@gmail.com or Jean at basabosejd@gmx.com.
