From Gaza to Canada - Talat's Family Needs Help

Hello friends,

[Spanish Translation]

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out on behalf of a friend and colleague, Talat, whom I have the privilege of knowing during our time working together. I have had the pleasure of working with him for the last five years and I know him to be a kind, talented, and professional individual. I recently learned that Talat's family, who resides in Gaza, is currently facing unimaginable challenges and needs support urgently.

Affected by the war in Gaza, Talat's family has been displaced from their home for more than three months. Talat's family, his parents and siblings, are now homeless, as their entire home was tragically demolished, leaving them in a state of despair and uncertainty. They are currently living in a very basic tent, struggling to find food, clean water, and a warm place. If you are able, your support will help his family regain a sense of stability and hope.

Talat moved to Canada six years ago, where he now lives with his own family. The Canadian government has announced a sponsorship program that will enable Talat to reunite with his extended family, and hopefully establish a peaceful life together. At this time, Talat has submitted the sponsorship application for his family members: both parents, four siblings and their children: a total of ten people. He is currently awaiting its approval so his family can get to safety and leave Gaza. Unfortunately, the Canadian government, while offering a lifeline through this program, does not provide financial assistance to help his family travel from Gaza and settle in Canada, placing an overwhelming financial responsibility on Talat.

Despite the hope of being able to reunite, there exists a huge expense that is beyond the capacity of any average person. Talat will be housing all ten of his family members in his home in Edmonton, AB Canada for the projected three year period of the sponsorship program.

Our Goal: Our immediate goal is to raise funds to reunite Talat with his family in a safe and secure place. We aim to collect 60,000 CAD to cover the costs of getting out of Gaza and moving to Canada.

How Your Donation Will Make a Difference:

The funds raised will be used towards multiple essential expenses, including but not limited to:

Accommodation in Cairo: During the biometrics process and visa waiting period, we are expecting an average waiting time of 3 months.

Passport Renewal Fees: Most of their personal documentation was lost during this war, therefore they will need to issue passports.

Living Expenses in Egypt: Food and clothes while in Egypt.

Flight Tickets to Canada: Ensuring a safe journey for Talat’s family members.

Support in Canada: Covering essentials such as bedding, groceries, utilities, transportation, clothing, healthcare and therapy sessions, and other needs to help them adapt to Canadian culture.

Why Your Support Matters:

Talat's family has endured immense hardship, but with your generosity, we can provide them with the means to start a new life in Canada. Your support will make a lasting difference in the lives of Talat's family. Your donation is also a tangible way to directly support a family during a crisis that seems a world away. Once the sponsorship application has been approved, we will provide updates as they are available.

How You Can Contribute:

Donate: Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goal.

Share: Spread the word by sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who know, the greater impact we can make together.

Messages of Support: Leave a message of encouragement for Talat and his family. Your words can be a source of strength during these challenging times.

Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and generosity.

Colleen

Talat’s Family:

From left to right: Parents, Mohammed (Professional Accountant), Huda (Teacher), Talat, Jumana (Dentist), Mohannad (Software Engineering Student), Abdalla (AC Technician).

Current Situation: