Our common story
It all started in September 2018, when we decided to join our forces to help provide a safe place for Safa and M. Yassin. We didn’t quite know where to start, but we didn’t lack energy and commitment. The first two years were about reviewing many resettlement programmes, attempting to contact UNCHR, to request humanitarian visas to various embassies and to contact NGOs in Lebanon, France, Scotland, Switzerland, Spain, Australia that are dedicated to the reception of refugees, the protection of human rights, the prevention of torture, gender violence or forced marriages. We learned a lot, we didn’t achieve our goal
At the end of 2019, the private sponsorship avenue to Canada opened, got in contact with MCC and the 1727 group, and agreed to start the procedures for the reception of M. Yassin. But administrative procedures are long by nature and the COVID pandemic breaks. M.Y’s file is in stand-by. We’re holding our breath, trying not to lose hope.
In the waiting period, the economic crisis breaks in Lebanon. We do our best to support, including financiallyThree years later, at the end of 2022, M. Yassin is officially accepted by the Canadian government. The emotion of that day cannot be explained with words, at the same time we all thought: « now, safety for Safa”.
Since his arrival in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, M. Yassin completed two trainings, found a job and joined the sponsorship program which is today allowing Safa to be so incredibly close to achieving our common dream. This is where we need all the support we can get. No less than 19.100 CAD are required by the end of June to complete Safa’s file and get the Canadian government approval.
We cannot imagine failing now, this close from seeing Safa living in a place where women’s rights are advanced, where she will finally get a chance at studying, working and being who she is without having to hide, next to her beloved brother.
We cannot wait to share that beautiful news with you, dear donors!
Special thanks to our supporters
Our progress is due to the support of a beautiful chain of solidarity. Group 1727 in Calgary has been instrumental in Muhammad Yassin’s successful settlement. Donors who supported his case in 2020 and those contributing to Safa’s case deserve our deepest thanks.
We are grateful to friends, family, humanitarian professionals, volunteers, lawyers, professors, civil servants, academics and diplomats who have guided us throughout the years. Every advice, donation and share helps us move closer to our goal.
The work of the last few years would not have been possible without the support of friends and families who have accompanied us, supported us, and helped us financially when necessary. To all of you, thank you.
To you, who are reading this, thank you for your interest in this story. We know these are difficult times, but all support is welcome. Every donation helps us reach our goal. Every share helps us reach more people. Thank you for being part of this chain of solidarity and for joining us in this humanitarian effort.
Muhammed Yassin and Safa
