n the face of crisis, uncertainty, and major life transitions, the resilience shown by people who are forced to flee their homes continues to inspire. Around the world, resettled refugees demonstrate extraordinary determination as they rebuild their lives in unfamiliar places and adjust to new cultures, languages, and expectations.
One family sponsored by the New Westminster Christian Reformed Church in British Columbia offers a powerful example of this strength.
A Journey Marked by Courage
Margaret Vegt, a member of the New Westminster sponsoring committee, reflects on the family’s long and dangerous journey to safety:
“The journey to today, via Turkey, was hard: mountain climbs in pitch dark, nearly losing a son while crossing a river, sweltering for long hours inside a sealed van, and being stopped by armed men at border checkpoints, knowing [their] lives depended on the honesty of strangers.”
Today, the contrast is striking.
“Every time I see them now their eyes are shining,” Margaret shares, “and you know there are smiles behind the masks.”
Building a New Life, One Step at a Time
For this family, there is much to celebrate. Shortly after their arrival in Canada, the father proudly paid off his immigration loan within just three months—well ahead of the typical three‑year repayment timeline.
The children are enrolled in school, one child is already taking an advanced level 4 English class, and several of the adult children are working and contributing to their new community.
The family’s growing confidence shows up in everyday milestones. Two of the children now hold learner’s driving licences and dream of one day owning a vehicle, like their older brother who arrived in Canada two years earlier. Friday evenings are often spent riding bicycles to a nearby park, where cousins and siblings gather to play basketball and soccer.
Margaret describes the family as “enthusiastic and positive,” adding that they are “so very thankful to World Renew for this new life.”
Welcoming Newcomers, Strengthening Communities
As more displaced people around the world find opportunities to resettle, their presence enriches communities and reminds us what perseverance, hope, and mutual support can accomplish. Welcoming newcomers may look different from place to place, but the core of it remains the same: people walking alongside people, offering dignity, friendship, and a chance to begin again.
Through World Renew’s Refugee Sponsorship and Resettlement program, we continue to walk alongside newcomers in partnership with local churches across Canada, advocating for compassionate policies and joining with supporters who share a vision of welcome—one rooted in dignity, faith, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life in safety and community.
