Last year, the Manlygees, a local group of volunteers, sponsored a Syrian refugee family to move to Australia. They were able to do this through the Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP).
Since the family arrived in November, it’s been all go! They moved into their temporary accommodation generously donated by a local family, enrolled in Government services, schools and English lessons, learnt how to navigate public transport, shopping and Australian culture, joined swimming and soccer clubs, and explored Sydney.
Earlier this year, the family decided that they would like to live in Western Sydney as they had connections there. It has a strong Arabic community, and they could afford a larger home with a big garden. Members of the Manlygees supported their move by taking them to house viewings, speaking to agents and, once they were successful in securing a home, helping on moving day.
We’re happy to share that the family are all thriving in their new home. The children are enrolled in local schools, both parents have passed their licence theory tests and the father recently passed his practical test. We’ve been lucky enough to celebrate and connect as a group at their home this year. Both times we were treated to an incredible Syrian feast, heard about the kids’ school and sports, and have been impressed with their progress learning English. Everyone in the group is really proud to have been on this journey with the family and feel privileged to have helped such wonderful people.
We are so grateful for the incredible amount of support we received from the Northern Beaches community. Without your donations of time, money and goods, the family wouldn’t be where they are now.
What’s next for the Manlygees?
Manlygees 2.0 has started! The number of refugees on the UN list for urgent migration is staggering and now that the family is settled, it’s time to help once more. Our volunteers are a mix of original members and new people from the local community.
They’re ready and excited to welcome another family to Australia and help them to start a new life in Sydney. Currently the group is completing their training and planning their next steps with fundraising top of the list. Stay tuned for another sell-out fundraising event!
Community Refugee Integration and Settlement Pilot (CRISP)
Under this pilot, groups of five or more ordinary Australians can sponsor a family who are referred by the UNHCR as refugees in urgent need of resettlement. The program is run by Community Refugee Sponsorship Australia, a registered charity with DGR status.
Refugee Week runs 18 to 24 June. This year’s theme is Finding Freedom. Find out all the details at www.refugeeweek.org.au