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The first of Canada’s government sponsored refugees arrived in Hamilton, and they were greeted with a little holiday cheer.
Of the 17 Syrian refugees who arrived, about half were children and as an introduction to their new home, the kids were given an early Christmas present or two.

When they arrived at Wesley Urban Ministry, the children of Hamilton’s first Syrian refugee’s were greeted with toys. Despite being tired the kids were quick to smile. Local MP Filomena Tassi says that Canada is offering hope and a future.

“And to see it instantaneously in the breakthrough of the laughter was amazing.”

They had come all the way from a camp in Jordan, leaving Sunday, they were shown off by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship John McCallum. From there it was a 15 hour flight to Toronto, a night in a hotel, then a ride to Hamilton.

Many arrived carrying everything they own, whether it was a basketball, a board game, or a doll. The donated toys represent more than just a present for kids. they are an offer of welcome.

“Because the world seems to be a dark and dangerous place these days, but there are some havens and canada is one of them.” said MP Bob Bratina.

A total of 17 Syrian refugees arrived at Wesley Urban Ministry and after a few moments with local leaders both parents and kids were shown to their rooms.

Each refugee will call this place home for about the next two weeks and the top priority was getting some rest because even though their long journey is over, the work is just beginning.

The work is helping then settle in a strange land, basic resources that help a person function.

As permanent residents, they will go through a health screening and then issued OHIP cards. Soon they will be shown apartments in the area and can decide where to live.

But for now, they can rest, and find a little time to feel normal in a new home.