The Al Nassan family, sponsored by Lifeline 224, a collection of local people, businesses, organizations and Churches who assisted St. Andrews United Church, under the blended visa program, is now well established in Chéticamp. For a second season, Rahmeh worked at the fish processing plant. The fishing season, now over, she is at home and happy to be able to spend more time with her children before they go back to school in September. She is very appreciative of her neighbours who have made her feel at home.
Rahmeh with her eldest daughter, Lujayan.
Lujayan had asked for a kitten for her 10th birthday.
Roa is 7 years old.
Carolyn MaKay, and her husband Howard, have become close friends of the Al Nassan family. Carolyn gave Rahmeh a sewing machine. She also invited her to join a women's group who do quilting and hooked rugs. Rahmeh enjoys the handywork and the opportunity to meet women from the community and practice her language skills.
Mahmoud is enjoying his work with Chéticamp Boatbuilders.
Mahmoud on a boat in Chéticamp.
Paulette Deveaux, is part-owner of Cheticamp Boatbuilders, and is happy she is able to offer Mahmoud employment. She is also very satisfied with his performance. Alvin Roach is Mahmoud's supervisor. He is key in helping him in his integration.
Judy McDougal (originally from Montréal) and her husband Myron Syms, knocked on the door of the Al Nassan family to welcome them, soon after their arrival in Chéticamp. They were worried that this family, from a different culture, may have difficulty being accepted by the town.
Judy and Myron have since become friends with the Al Nassan family and are impressed by how easily the family has fit into the community.
The Al Nassan's children go to the local French language school. They are learning both English and French. They will be trilingual.
For more information on this project, click here.
All Photographs courtesy of Stephanie Colvey.
