​Update from Bridge of Hope - January 2024

Bridge of Hope began in 2015 as a joint effort of Grace and the Islamic Society of St. Catharines to welcome Syrian Refugees to Canada. Many people from Grace have contributed financially, given leadership to BoH as an organization and have assisted personally in welcoming newcomers to Canada. To date, between 30 and 40 people have been welcomed. The initial partnership has expanded to include representatives from 6 – 8 congregations or faith communities. Many of the first participants from the Islamic community were persons with younger families. For family and professional reasons many of these people are no longer as directly involved. During the pandemic the flow of newcomers slowed done. We are currently anticipating the arrival of 3 families from South Sudan. These sponsorships also represent a shift from BoH personnel doing the primary resettlement work, to using the network and expertise BoH has developed to assist other congregations and faith groups in being the primary resettlement groups. Your ongoing financial and prayerful support continues to be welcomed.
– Dave Brubacher and Doug Schulz