“They Help Everybody!”
In 2019, Zineb and her family arrived in Canada after spending 10 years in the United States.
They had left Libya in 2008, so Zineb’s husband could study for a PhD in Chemistry, on a scholarship. When his studies ended, they could no longer stay in the U.S.
They decided to move to Canada. They wanted to give their children a chance to study here, seeing more opportunities than they had in the States.
While in the U.S, the family lived in university housing and had some money, but not a lot. Most of the social support available in the United States was restricted to U.S. citizens. Zineb’s family couldn’t access basic supports like food stamps.
And because they were there on a student visa, they couldn’t legally work in the United States, making it very difficult to make ends meet.
When they moved to Canada, a friend helped them find a house to rent in Waterloo, but it had no furniture. With very little money left after the move, they found bedding at Value Village so they could sleep on the floor.
“We had nothing when we got here,” said Zineb. “We only had clothing.”
That Saturday, Zineb was walking near her home and met a neighbour.
“She showed me the Sunnydale community centre,” said Zineb. “I came on Monday and met Marwa and Fariba. I told them, ‘I am a newcomer here. And they helped me.’”
Marwa, a Community Development Worker at House of Friendship, spoke to Zineb in Arabic, helping her feel more at home. And Fariba, a Family Outreach Worker, sat down with her to help Zineb find the support she needed.
Fariba quickly helped Zineb get some furniture.
“I received beds for everybody, and a sofa, and a table, and stuff for the kitchen,” said Zineb. “I was crying.”
Since then, Zineb found part-time work as a lunchroom supervisor. Unfortunately, her husband has been unable to find work, despite his extensive education. Zineb has encouraged her children to be practical with their education, finding programs that will lead to good jobs.
Zineb has also made Sunnydale Community Centre a second home, going there for the support she needs, as well as regularly volunteering with the food program.
“This area has many programs for families and children,” said Zineb. “House of Friendship is very good. I tell my friends, ‘The community centre will help you – they help everybody!’”
