The James Bay United Church Refugee Sponsorship Committee would like to share an update on the Afghan refugee family currently living in Islamabad, as well as their two adult children who are now in Canada.

This past month has been an especially stressful and uncertain time for the family in Islamabad. Their landlord initially asked them to purchase paint and repaint their apartment. After the work was completed, the landlord asked the family to leave because they did not have valid Pakistani visas and the landlord was concerned about continuing to provide them with accommodation. Following many difficult conversations and negotiations, the family was given an additional month to remain in the apartment.

Thankfully, the family has since found new, more stable accommodation and has secured a lease for at least one year. They moved into their new apartment on Sunday, November 8, 2026, bringing some much-needed stability and relief after a very challenging period.

The Committee also recently gathered in the Lower Mainland to celebrate with the mother’s brother and his family, as well as two of the family’s adult children who are now building their lives in Canada.

The family’s eldest daughter, who was able to leave Afghanistan with her husband before the rest of the family, is now living in the Vancouver area. We are very happy to share that she and her four-year-old daughter have recently received their Canadian citizenship.

The family’s fifth adult child had previously left Pakistan after receiving a scholarship to study in Virginia, United States. Due to changing circumstances, he later left the United States and crossed into Canada approximately one year ago. He is now working full-time as a salesperson at a car dealership and continues to build a new life in Canada.

Through so much uncertainty and change, this family continues to demonstrate tremendous courage, perseverance, and hope.

Thank you once again for your generosity, commitment, prayers, and continued care for this family. Your support continues to make a meaningful difference as they journey toward safety, stability, and the hope of being reunited together in Canada.

With gratitude,
James Bay United Church Refugee Sponsorship Committee

Ministries And Programs
James Bay Refugee Initiative