I came to Canada in 2016 with my family as refugees, after fleeing the war in Syria. Canada has given me safety, stability, and the chance to rebuild my life. Now, I am trying to give my sister and her family the same opportunity for a better future. - Habbous Deeb
Habbous, a member of St Philip's congregation from Syria, applied to sponsor her sister’s family as refugees to Canada and was rejected for 4 years in a row. In mid-May 2026 she was informed that a sponsorship spot had opened at the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria, the Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH). A Constituent Group was formed to partner with the ICA for this application, including individual members of St. Philip, St. Barnabas, and Broadview United Church.
The sponsorship group must raise $42,450 by July 31, 2026. Every sponsorship has the same deadline. Meeting the amount raised by the financial deadline determines if the application will continue to be processed. We then need to continue to raise funds to a minimum of $60,000 to support the family when they arrive in Victoria.
With God's help, we can do this.
Click here for more information, a message from Habbous, and donation methods.
Fundraising events:
- Saturday, June 20th Belly Dancing event at Kulea Culture Society, 1303 Broad Street, Victoria. Two classes: 10:00 - 11:15 am, 1/2 hr break, 11:45 - 1:00pm. Admission by donation at the door.
- Sunday, June 28th at 7pm JAZZ concert with PABLO CARDENAS AND HIS BAND, LEIF BRADSHAW and DIANE PANCEL, Broadview United Church, 3703 St. Aidan's Street, Victoria doors open at 6pm. Plus: Silent Auction
- Wednesday, July 22nd at 7pm BALKAN MUSIC Featuring STELUŢA at St. Philip's Church, 2928 Eastdowne Road, Victoria, doors open at 6pm. Plus: Silent Auction
Header image: Mike Labrum, Unsplash