Big crowd expected at First Fredericton Friend(s) info session
Multicultural group looking for people to help incoming Syrian refugees get acquainted with the city
The Multicultural Association of Fredericton is expecting a packed session on Tuesday night for the inaugural information session of the First Fredericton Friend(s) program.
Bonnie Doughty, the association's community connections co-ordinator, says the program, designed to help the newcomers become acquainted with the city, is generating tremendous buzz.
"We've been very busy. It's hard to keep up with the emails and phone calls and the work itself. It's exciting times," Doughty said in an interview on Information Morning Fredericton.
"It's amazing to see the ideas and engagement people in this community have offered to be part of this project," she said.
"People are saying, can we knit hats and mittens, can we donate toys, can we put on a concert, can we cut their hair for them if they need it when they come … It's amazing the generosity of people."
Recruiting first friends
Tuesday's meeting will be a chance to delve into detail about it will mean to be a First Fredericton Friend(s) volunteer, from providing mentoring and tutoring or just being a good 'first friend.' There will be a second meeting on Dec. 8.
Doughty says the group would like at least two volunteers matched with each new family that arrives. She's hoping the relationships will evolve into something with a deeper connection.
"People here are very friendly but it's hard to get into people's houses … so with these First Fredericton Friends, it allows people to make these good, strong friendships and people become like their surrogate families … they become their aunties, and cousins."
Volunteers are required to fill out an application with references and undergo a security check.
The multicultural association will provide training, and Doughty says the program involves a big time commitment.
People will also need to understand the importance of privacy and confidentiality, as well as an understanding of the cultural challenges Syrian refugees might face coming to New Brunswick, she said.
"They'll learn about how the community works, and they'll learn about what it means to be a New Brunswicker," said Doughty.