100 more Syrian refugees arrive in Regina
65 refugees have already arrived since late last year
Friday was a big day for Syrian refugees making a new home in Regina — with about 100 coming to the city.
Several flights arrived throughout the day bringing the newcomers to the city — the last leg of their long journey.
They're among the 25,000 refugees who've fled from violence in their home country and whom the Canadian government has pledged to bring to Canada.
"They can see the happiness," a woman who interpreted the words of one of the refugees who arrived Friday night said. "They want peace and a future for their children."
Some 65 Syrians, about 12 families, have arrived in the Queen City since late last year, according to the Open Door Society, which is helping to settle the refugees.
The job of settling them into life here is going well, officials told reporters on Friday.
Of the 12 families, 11 are already in permanent housing. As well, the school-aged children who have arrived will start classes soon.
The Open Door Society is expecting another 35 arrivals next week. They say that, by the end of February a total of about 800 refugees will have been settled in province.
With files from Stefani Langenegger