First Syrian refugee family to Prince Albert settles in

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The family was calm and collected as they spoke. Hassan and Qais fidgeted a little, but didn’t seem thrown off by their new surroundings.

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The family is staying at the Travelodge while accommodations are found for them.

Now they have some company. A second refugee family was picked up at the Saskatoon International Airport Wednesday night. Another family arrives Thursday and two families will make the trip to Prince Albert on Friday.

These families are the first of many. 80 refugees will be calling Prince Albert home in the coming months.

Ahmed said as soon as he arrived in Canada he felt safe and comfortable. He thanked the Canadian government and Canadians for welcoming him to the country.

The family’s home was destroyed in the Syrian crisis, leaving the family stranded and feeling unsafe.

“He was worried about his kids. That’s why he came out,” the translator said.

Back home Ahmed owned a restaurant, and he hopes to open another one in Prince Albert, providing residents with authentic Syrian food.

However, getting an education for himself and his children is the priority now that he has successfully immigrated to Canada. Before arriving, he said he knew little of Canada, but once he heard that Canada was opening its doors and accepting immigrants, he began researching the country.

He finished the interview with a message for Canadians. He hoped everyone was safe, and had a good life.

His wife Majdaleen said she was praying to give everyone in Canada a good life.

ssterritt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit