Chatham-Kent's first Syrian refugee family is adjusting to Canadian life, and the municipality is eager to welcome more.
They may get the chance with the introduction of the Community Partnership Settlement Plan. The Federal program allows cities to apply to be "welcoming communities" for government-sponsored refugees. Getting this distinction means the municipality would be considered during future refugee efforts.
As of March 7 2016, Canada has reached its goal of welcoming 25,000 Syrian refugees into the country. CK's Manager of Community Attraction and Promotion Audrey Ansell says the municipality has expressed a desire in being part of the Community Partnership Plan.
"If there is an opportunity to actually become an officially designated welcoming community for any newcomers, we'd definitely be interested in following that up," explains Ansell.
Meanwhile, the first Syrian refugee family to be welcomed to CK say they're extremely greatful for their new life in Canada. Mohamed Alhajjeh and his wife Nourma brought their five children to Chatham-Kent on December 18, 2015.
"The people of Chatham have been very nice, and everyone has been very welcoming," the family says through their translator Samar Al Mohamed.
While the Alhajjehs concede the language barrier has been the most difficult part to adjust to, they're treating this experience as a true second chance.
"Back where they came from, obviously there's no future," says Al Mohamed. "But now over here it'll be a new future for them, especially for the kids."
With over 50% of the Syrian refugees that have been brought to Canada under the age of 18, the Federal plan, which will be rolled out over the next couple weeks, presents an opportunity to grow CK's dwindling population.
"Being able to welcome people from all background and age groups is very important to us," adds Ansell. "There is certainly an opportunity for us here to welcome family groups, so we have new residents new citizens growing up in our community."
By Chatham-Kent's estimates, as many as 70 people or 11 families could potentially settle comfortably in the municipality.