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“I moved to
Canada from India anticipating a better qualify of life with family but soon after my arrival was told I could no longer live at home. I had no living accommodations and was not allowed to take any of my belongings, identification, or immigration papers when I left. I took refuge at the local Sikh temple but could not seek any social or government assistance as I had no identification to verify my identity or legal status in Canada. I asked for assistance from the Legal Educator and she helped me reapply for my identification and immigration documents. She also assisted me with housing accommodations through the Ministry of Social Housing and Development. I am now living independently with stable financial support and feel hopeful about my future instead of the hopelessness that dawned months ago. The Legal Educator continues to assist me with any on-going issues with the Ministry of Social Housing and Development”.
Many family members access legal information on behalf of their loved ones. Another father we spoke to provides the following story:
“My daughter began disclosing that her partner was physically abusive and needed to leave him. I feared for her safety and that of my grandchildren, but I did not know how to support them. I approached an advocate from South Fraser Women’s Services after hearing about the legal program on the local radio. The advocate provided me with information about protection orders and the court process. I connected the advocate to my daughter who was able to assist her in applying for legal aid and seeking protection orders after separation. My daughter has applied for custody and child support for the children and the advocate continues to accompany my daughter to any court related appointments”.