The Qualicum Refugee Sponsorship Group 2017 is looking for local Arabic speakers.
The local group put a call out Monday, Feb. 5, (Feb. 5) looking for local Arabic speakers to help with the Syrian family that arrived in December, during its outings and activities in the community. The release states having someone to communicate with the family in Arabic would add to the family’s understanding and enjoyment.
“If you have even a rudimentary knowledge of Arabic and would enjoy an opportunity to spend time with the family and introduce them to our community, please let us know,” the release states.
The QRSG17 does have access to formal translation services when needed. The group has also been using help from an Arabic translator based out of Nanaimo.
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The family’s mother, Samar, has been going to English lessons in Nanaimo, while the father, Bader, has been receiving language instruction locally while looking after the youngest child, Oday, at home. The two daughters, Fatima and Zeinab, have begun school and daycare, respectively.
If anyone knows any Arabic, they can contact the group by emailing chair@qualicumrsg.org.
— NEWS Staff