Canadian newcomer shares hidden struggles facing immigrant, refugee families

For many newcomers, the promise of a fresh start in Canada can quickly turn into a fight for survival. In Hamilton, one mother’s story is shining a light on the hidden struggles faced by immigrant and refugee families.

For nine-year-old Fatima, home doesn’t feel the same anymore. For her mother, Nadiya Sahar, everything changed in an instant.

“I didn’t have any money, not even a dollar,” says Nadiya.

A newcomer to Canada, Nadiya says she was abandoned by her husband almost a year ago — left without emotional or financial support for their young daughter.

“It’s not about the money, the part I feel bad about, it’s about the abandonment, the trust, the hardship that being alone is not easy in a country where you know no one.”

Before leaving the family and the country, Nadiya says her former husband left behind unpaid debts and tax liabilities now tied to her.

With limited support and unfamiliar systems to navigate, Nadiya is facing a legal and financial crisis alone.

Mishka Social Services, a Hamilton-based agency supporting Muslims, immigrants, refugees and newcomers, stepped in, launching emergency fundraising to help Nadiya survive this moment.

Dalia Saleh from Mishka Social Services says, “Nadiya, actually, she came through Hamilton Newcomer Helpline. She needed help with financials, and also she gets support to find a job and staying in Canada. And also, now we’re working with her for getting a house.”

Nadiya’s story is far from unique, with many newcomers facing barriers in their new home.

“For the newcomers, I found that’s mostly language and childcare for the mom … the culture also actually is also a barrier — and finding a job,” said Saleh.

Add to that rising costs and systemic gaps leave many women falling through the cracks — often silently.

To help Nadiya rebuild, Mishka has launched a GoFundMe, hoping to raise $10,000.

For Nadiya, this support means safety for her child and a chance to start again. After loss, after fear, and after being left to navigate it all alone.

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