FINANCIAL CRISES - SINCE I CAME AS A REFUGEE
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Hello,
I would like to share my story. I came to Canada four years ago. I came as a Refugee from Thailand. When I came to Canada - I realized the number one issue is to find a full- time Job. I am lucky I can speak English so that helps. But Canada does not accept previous educational/ work history from other countries. So finding a full time job is an uphill battle. I have been here four years and still do not have a full time job. The cost of living is so high here it is impossible to survive on a part time job.
Working 2-3 days a week on minimum wage does not even cover the rent. I have been in a desperate situation for a very long time. As a Refugee, you are accepted to a third country and the government pays your airfare with the idea that you must pay back that is impossible with my part- time job. Other than that I would not mind. But I can barely afford to feed myself and then I am worried about paying debts to the Government. Airline tickets debt $ 6.200 dollars.
Covid-19 hit the world soon after I arrived in Canada. Someone told me that the Government gives money to help people through the Covid-19 crises. I was new to the country and had no idea of the laws and rules here and very ignorant of the ways of living here. I simply trusted him. I applied for the funds and now the Government wants it back.
Covid-19 debt $ 16.000 dollars !!
I also had a marriage that fell apart and that added to the financial stress. That was the biggest reason I needed Covid -19 financial help. She kept her money hidden from me and we could not pay rent because she refused to share responsibility towards our living costs. Finally I had to leave for my mental health. I realized she will never change and I could not live like that.
There were times when I had to use a Credit Card, after I moved out because you can only ask your friends to help you not for many times -so I have Credit Card debt as well.
After six years of my refugee journey the day I landed at Vancouver International Airport, I experienced what FREEDOM is. Living in freedom has not been financially a good thing for me -but otherwise I am grateful to be living in Canada. Of course Canada is a blessed country in so many ways. I like the country, people and nature and everything here. I am not complaining about this country. And I pray for my country Canada and my people (Canadians). Only thing that is hard is the Work situation and it has created lots of stress for me.
If anyone can help me with any of these debts - I would be so grateful.
Thank you for for your time to read this letter.
God bless you and your loved ones. Amen
Aqeel |
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