Fredericton refugees to double by Sunday, 500 more in coming months

The Multicultural Association ofFredericton says it needs to step up efforts to accommodate an influx of Syrian refugees in the coming days.

LisaBamfordDeGante, executive director of themulticultural association, says the number of refugees in Fredericton willmore than double to 175 by Sunday,with another500 on the way in the coming months.

"We don't want to put a pause, we want to continue to be able to receive the families. But it means we have to step up,acceleratewhat we're doing," she said.

De Gantesats the multicultural association is looking for new beds and transportation to carry furniture and suppliesto helpfamilies get established.

"We're also moving the families within three days of arrival now, nine or so families a week, so we need more physical resources to keep up our pace," she said.

In the meantime, many people aretrying to help those who have already arrivedfeel at home.

Warm welcome

A special reception was help on Friday to welcomethenewSyrian families to Fredericton, with hundreds ofhandmadehats, mittens, sweaters and blankets spread out for the newcomers to choose from.

Dubbed, "A Warm Welcome," the initiativewas put together byartsnb, along with the multicultural association, theNewBrunswick Crafts Council, the Fredericton Public Library, Yarns on York, and the Atlantic Institute on Aging.

One of the knitted hats had a note attached that said, "Hi my name is Lilly. I made this hat for you. I'm 9 years old. Welcome to Canada."

Majed Alkraiz said, through a translator, his family feels very welcomed after waiting over a year to come here.

Tilly Jacksonone ofthose who created a homemade gift, said,"I was just hoping that whoever wears them will be kept warm and will feel special."