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Swahili speakers needed

Refugees from Burundi soon to arrive in Mission, but most will need language help.
14899missionREFUGEEPIC

A number of churches and community groups working to sponsor refugees need help from volunteers who speak Swahili.

Three families, totalling 14 people, will come to Mission soon from a refugee camp in Burundi. They fled the Congo six years ago and have been approved for travel by the Canadian government some time ago.

The community has been generous in donating household needs for the families, but there is still one major outstanding need. Only one of those coming to Mission can speak any English. The rest speak Swahili.

The host groups are looking for a group of Swahili-speaking people who can help make the refugees feel welcome and help them become comfortable in Canada.

To help, contact Rick Rake at Mission Community Services (604-826-3634).

On Jan. 20, Mission Community Services Society’s settlement and integration department is hosting a public Refugee Readiness Forum at the Clarke Theatre, starting at 6 p.m.