Markham Community Comes Together For Syrian Humanitarian Effort

A capacity crowd attended a special information forum and discussion on January 26 hosted by Mayor Frank Scarpitti to highlight how residents can help with the Syrian humanitarian effort.

Over 250 residents, community and social service organizations, and business representatives attended the evening session with special guests John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Ms. Moy Wong-Tam representing Markham’s Welcome Centres, Richard Cunningham, President and CEO of the Markham Board of Trade, Members of Markham Council, and Mr. Ming Man who provided a personal and positive testimonial of his own refugee experience during the Vietnam boat people crisis.

Minister McCallum described the Syrian situation as the worst refugee crisis in recent history, that Canada’s leadership role was the right thing to do, and an effort that has been recognized on the world stage. He congratulated Markham for its civic leadership and the overwhelming support from the community. He noted that Markham is the most diverse cityin Canada, and that Markham’s leadership on diversity and multiculturalism serves as a model for others to follow.

Dr. Jane Philpott, Minister of Health also provided a greeting and warm thanks and congratulations to the City for its efforts.

Mayor Scarpitti said that, “Markham residents have always come together to provide help and support around the world to those in need and in time of crisis. And that’s a reflection of four own diverse and global community. There are many ways we can help, and should help, to alleviate this unprecedented humanitarian effort.”

Markham provided an extensive information display and staff resources to highlight the numerous service and programs available for newcomers including resettlement initiatives.

“Markham has a long history of working with our Welcome Centres and others to help newcomers with their transition to Canada,” said Mayor Scarpitti. “We’re very proud of our efforts to ensure opportunities are available for those of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. In Markham, everyone is welcome.”

Mayor Scarpitti thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for his leadership and Premiere Wynne for her support of this cause, and encouraged everyone to visit Markham’s website to find out how they can sponsor a family, donate money or volunteer their time. Markham will also be sponsoring food and clothing drives in the future, and hosting social networking sessions for newcomers.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti: “There are many ways we can help and should help to alleviate this unprecedented humanitarian effort.”

Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship John McCallum describes the magnitude of the Syrian humanitarian effort by Canada and others.

Caption: L-R: Markham Board of Trade President and CEO Richard Cunningham, Minister John MCCallum, Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Federal representative Bernie Derible, Welcome Centre representative Moy Wong-Tam and former Vietnam refugee Ming Man.