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Lack of jobs, housing: why some of Canada’s Syrian refugees are relocating
A year ago this December, the first wave of Syrian refugees to Canada arrived in their new homes across the country. But for some, home is still another big move away.
In what's being called a second migration, many refugees from Syria are packing up their lives once again in an effort to find work, to be near family and friends, or even for better weather.
In 2012, Lina Arafeh left Syria for Turkey, and in September moved to Halifax as a refugee, privately sponsored by her friend.
"I love life in Halifax. I love the people. They're very hospitable. The schools are amazing," Arafeh tells The Current's Anna Maria Tremonti.
Arafeh has nine children, five of whom are grown. Her other four are here with her in Canada.
"They have helped my kids adjust. They're doing very very well. I'm happy."
Nonetheless, Arafeh says she plans to move to Toronto when her year of private sponsorship is up. As a professional interpreter, there are job opportunities in Toronto that don't exist in Halifax.
She says her children are resilient when it comes to having to relocate again.
"These kids I don't know what they're made of. Diamond maybe," she says.
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