REGINA – For Regina’s newest citizens, the city can be an unfamiliar place and finding out what services are offered is a challenge. The Regina Open Door Society hosted a Community Fair on Thursday for newcomers; aimed at strengthening the relationship between immigrants and the community.
For people like Omar Ezzedden, a Syrian refugee who has been in Canada for just over a month, the barriers have been plentiful.
“First, language. Second, weather,” Omar said through a translator. “Third, it’s a totally new place.”
Omar spent three years in a refugee camp in Jordan. In many of those camps, refugees didn’t have access to things as common in Canada as a toothbrush.
“In the refugee camps, they weren’t given toothbrushes. So one gentleman said his toothbrush was seven years old,” community connection worker with RODS, Laura Strong said.
READ MORE: Edmonton dentist donates time to Syrian refugees
Now in Canada, many refugees are eager to find proper dental care.
“They do know they need help with their oral care,” registered dental assistant Patricia Czaplicki said.
“That is a primary concern for sure.”
Those with refugee status are covered for a year and trying to make the most of that time.
However, dental care is just part of a long list of services refugees may be interested in. It’s why the Regina Open Door Society is trying to improve accessibility.
“It’s really important to make them aware of what exists and how to access it,” said Strong.
“‘Do I get the bus to the north end to get there? Or now I have a business card and I’ve met somebody from there and I know how to connect with them.'”
READ MORE: Saskatchewan takes in more refugees than expected; focus now on resettlement
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