Introduction
Aminullah Kakar, along with his wife and three children, embarked on a life-changing journey to Canada on January 27, 2024, through the Special Immigration Measure for Afghans. Upon arrival, the family faced the daunting task of finding a permanent home while staying in a hotel for two and a half months. Despite the challenges, a friend in Toronto helped them secure an apartment, and they have now been living there for seven months, paying $2,750 in monthly rent.
Challenges
Relocating from New Brunswick to Toronto presented significant hurdles for the Kakar family. In New Brunswick, they paid around $1,000 to $1,200 in rent, with a $500 monthly rental subsidy from the government. However, upon moving to Toronto, where rent is much higher, their request for continued rental support was declined. The high rent and the lack of monthly benefits, including child benefits, forced them to borrow money from friends and relatives to cover their expenses.
Support from Canadian Connections
A friend recommended that Aminullah contact Canadian Connections (CC) for support. Malalai from CC, who helps refugees, became a crucial source of assistance. Thanks to CC, the family received a laptop and, upon mentioning their lack of furniture, CC arranged help through IKEA.
Receiving the Furniture
Receiving the furniture was a moment of great joy for the Kakar family. They were extremely happy and grateful, and they continue to pray for the organization that supported them. The Afghan community is especially thankful to Malalai at CC for her work in assisting refugees like them.
Impact on Daily Life
The furniture has significantly improved their living conditions. Before, the family slept on the floor without even a mattress. Now, the children are delighted to have their own beds, and the addition of stationery and a writing board has made a big difference in their daily routines.
Positive Changes
The furniture has brought positive changes to their lives. They now feel safer, knowing that sleeping on beds keeps them away from insects and other concerns associated with sleeping on the floor. Having a dining table and chairs has improved their quality of life, as they no longer have to eat sitting on the ground.
Sense of Stability and Belonging
Having a well-furnished home has greatly enhanced their sense of stability and belonging. The support they received when they needed it most, along with the quality and newness of the furniture, has made them feel more settled and comfortable in their new life in Canada.
Future Aspirations
For their children, Aminullah and his wife hope for a brighter future, with opportunities to grow professionally and build successful careers in Canada. They have no worries about the future because they are confident that Canada will offer them opportunities for a secure and prosperous life.
Gratitude
The Kakar family is incredibly grateful to IKEA and all the donors for giving them hope and helping them start a new life in Canada. They encourage donors to continue supporting refugees, as their contributions make a significant impact in helping families settle and thrive in their new communities. They also thank organizations like CC, which serve as crucial channels through which donors can fulfill their mission. These donations have brought a significant positive change to the lives of refugees and newcomers like the Kakar family in Canada.