More than 150 people gathered recently with the same purpose – to support another refugee family to settle in the Northern Rivers.
Local comedian Ellen Briggs gave her time gratis to MC a trivia night organised by FoRBS (Friends of Refugees Byron Shire) at Mullumbimby St John’s Hall.
Families previously settled under the CRISP program were in attendance and spoke warmly about the value of the local community in making refugee families settle into our community.
Dad, Foaad, gave a 10-minute speech in English warming the crowd with his delightful stories. He also described firsthand the CRISP program and the roles volunteers played to welcome him and his family.
His daughters, along with the daughters of the Bloudani family (who are supported by MrsG) drew the raffle prizes.
And a special surprise ending for the night was two songs sung by young friends Leen and Ghina.
The evening was a marvellous success – raising over $8,000 for refugee families.
There were more than a few tears of joy from audience members when they heard these stories of courage and resilience!
This is the second family FoRBS have settled; Foaad and his family were the first. The second family of four from Syria will arrive in mid-November.
Please email group coordinator, Monique if you have any home or IT items you can donate to support the family, or could offer some time to drive around until the family have their licences.
