Most Syrian refugee families landing in Canada bring very few possessions with them, and are essentially starting from scratch.
The need for supplies to help them get started in their new home is a big burden, and without a means of transportation it can be much more difficult.
Thursday, the City of Fredericton looked to help alleviate some of that strain by presenting off-peak transit passes to the Multi-Cultural Association which will be given to Syrian families as they arrive in the New Brunswick capital.
“They live in temporary accommodations for a few days but they pick their apartment and the bus passes are so crucial because it gives people mobility,” said Lisa Bamford, executive director of the Multi-Cultural Association of Fredericton.
“They can pick where they want to go, as they gather things to make themselves at home in this community they can also get to know the community. It gives mobility which is such an important thing.”
In addition to the off-peak transit passes for Syrian families, the city also presented numerous teddy bears donated by residents which will be given to the children of the refugee families upon arrival.
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