Five local performers made for quite a concert to benefit the Syrian refugee family that will soon be coming to Humboldt.
The Humboldt and Area Refugee Coalition put on the concert on Jan. 30 and had the Community Gathering Place full of support for the new family.
Andy McAnally got the musicians together, including his own band, The Horse’s Mouth, along with performers Ray Whitton, and Trevor Ross, and Brain Grest and Brett Hrynewich performing their own set before going on with their band, 40oz Philosophy.
It made for a lot of energy, says McAnally.
“Especially from the musicians, there was no hesitation on stepping forward and showing off their talents.”
Even before the concert there was a lot of support from the Humboldt community, says McAnally.
“We got people coming in, they couldn’t make it this evening but they dropped off cheques and cash as donations.”
Erin Ruel has been spearheading the coalition since the idea got started back in the fall of 2015. There has been a lot of support since then, says Ruel.
“We had an information session and it was a good chance for people to learn what the coalition has been doing and what’s going on with the situation in Syria and how it works for refugees to be privately sponsored.”
Since then, the focus has been fundraising, including the benefit concert.
The Humboldt coalition has been adopted under the Anglican Diocese as a constituent group. The coalition group can then adopt a family through their agreement.
Ruel is really excited about the positive and welcoming response that has come from the Humboldt community.
Events like this help attitudes towards the refugee problem, says performer Ray Whitton, who jumped at the chance to play guitar and sing to support the new family.
“Events like this they help introduce tolerance and education. We’re lucky to be here.” Says Whitton.
Growing up a time of “dropping food” for humanitarian aid but did not get involved in the fight, Whitton says we’re ready to start bringing in people who need to escape the turmoil.
“I think a lot of people are ready for the openness and willingness to bring over young families who’s unfortunately had challenging start to life and embrace it.”
It’s a good feeling to help in this way, says Whitton. He is excited to meet the family when they get to Humboldt and says him and his wife have been saving their used clothes and extra household items for the family if they need it.
Whitton’s excitement is a sign of how much Saskatchewan gives. All you have to do is look at Telemiracle every year, says McAnally.
“Whether the economy is good or bad the province always gives.”
Because of Saskatchewan’s giving spirit, McAnally says that the Syrian family coming in will be well supported.
Saskatchewan is a progressive province, even if the rest of the country does not think so, says McAnally.
“This is the province that started health care, for crying out loud.”
