MISSISSAUGA, ON, March 5, 2016 /CNW/ - Today, World Vision Canada and the Mennonite Central Committee helped bring together Canadian children and children recently arrived from Syria to make new friends in a fun environment. The "play date" event promoted a warm Canadian welcome for Syrian newcomers and included everything from a jumpy castle to face painting. Children played side by side and simply had a great time, according to the two host charities.
Quotes:
"This was a great moment for Canadian kids to give a true Canadian welcome and have a lot of fun at the same time. It was heart-warming to see children playing together and making new friends. These kids set an example for all of Canada to follow. Our new Syrian neighbours are adjusting to a whole new life, but we can all be involved in helping them feel right at home. With a warm welcome and on-going support, these new families will thrive here in Canada."
-Hugh Brewster, National Manager, Canadian Programs, World Vision
"Mennonite Central Committee Ontario is excited to partner with World Vision on this play date for Syrian newcomer kids. So many of the children we have helped to sponsor to Ontario have not had enough opportunity to play and have fun. It's a wonderful way to welcome newcomers to Canada! MCC remains committed to its on-going relief, development and peace efforts so that all children can have the opportunity to play."
-Wendy Adema, MCC Ontario Program Director
"I feel very happy. It's so interesting here today. It's a great idea, everyone playing together! Thank you to the people who made this."-Judi
"I want to thank Canada for watching out for us, and for other Syrians."-Sedra
Media resources:
Photos from the "play date" party
Video of Canadian kids welcoming Syrian kids to Canada, many in attendance at the event today
#CanadiansWelcome
World Vision is a relief, development, and advocacy organization working to create lasting change in the lives of children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, World Vision is dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. Visit our News Centre at worldvision.ca
SOURCE World Vision Canada
Image with caption: "Judi and Sedra (left and right) made a new friend Jubilene of Toronto at the playdate, hosted by World Vision and the Mennonite Central Committee (CNW Group/World Vision Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160305_C2962_PHOTO_EN_635957.jpg
For interviews contact: Julia Rim Shepard: [email protected], Cell: 416-878-7167
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