As the tragedy involving refugees from Syria continues to play out, London's mayor and a number of community groups are hoping to help some refugees escape the crisis and find new homes in London.
Mayor Matt Brown, along with the London Muslim Mosque, Islamic Centre of Southwest Ontario, Muslim Association of Canada London Chapter, and Metropolitan United Church are looking to raise money to sponsor several Syrian families through Lifeline Syria with the goal of having them settle in London.
“It is so important that we provide assistance and help sponsor families affected by this crisis,” says Brown “Londoners are compassionate and caring, we should give what we can to help as many families as possible. Over the next month I will work with Faith Leaders and community organizations to raise funds and awareness so that we can welcome Syrian refugees with open arms. The time for us to act is now.”
A release from the city of London says residents can help by donating at all five Libro Financial branches in London, The London Muslim Mosque, and the Islamic Centre of Southwest Ontario.
Donations will be accepted beginning on Tuesday.
Libro will also accept e-transfers at Lifeline@libro.ca.
“Time is of the essence to help alleviate the Syrian refugee crisis,” says Abd Alfatah Twakkal, Imam of Twakkal, London Muslim Mosque. “Our community here in London can do much in this regard and we are very happy to be part of a collaborative effort and response alongside other community groups and the Mayor of London to do what is our collective duty as Canadians to assist the refugees of Syria.”
Brown is also reaching to the mayors of Toronto, Vancouver, and other big cities in an effort to coordinate efforts across the country to help Syrian refugees.
