Editor:
The Board of Ladysmith First United Church, bolstered by the support of the larger community, agreed on Wednesday, Sept. 23, to endorse the efforts of a local group to bring a Syrian family to Ladysmith.
With that support in hand, the committee will first apply to the United Church of Canada to be included in their refugee sponsorship agreement with the federal government. Following that an application will be made to Immigration Canada to sponsor a family of four (including a baby to be born in December).
The fourth family member will increase the financial obligation. With over $30,000 already pledged for the project, the additional expense is not a concern. Those who have pledged support, and any who would still like to contribute, may make their cheques payable to Ladysmith First United Church, designated for Refugee Sponsorship.
Tax-deductible receipts will be issued early in 2016.
The family in Syria has already begun filling out their application papers. It may be months before we need furniture and household items for them, but we are well on the way to making a difference in the world.
John and Kathy PottsLadysmith