Building Peaceful Bridges Updates

Afghan Newcomers & Turkey Earthquake Relief Efforts - A big thanks to the Men’s Club for assisting in the move of the Afghan newcomers to Peterson Park. Not only was a moving truck provided by Dave Hollander, but many Men’s Club volunteers helped to move the family of eight and their belongings to a new home. The home has proven to be a wonderful place for the families. It is near to Northeastern Illinois University where both Basharmal and Ahmad are pursuing their master’s degrees. Meanwhile, some of the Qazi women have been using their sewing talents to create beautiful scarves that will be for sale later this week. With seed money from Building Peaceful Bridges, they hope to become self-sufficient. More to come on this endeavor. 

Peterson Park is also a lovely neighborhood with a playground for the children. And speaking of children, new baby girl Taqwa was born in November! She is growing and thriving.
 
Other newcomers who are being assisted by BPB have unfortunately heard difficult news about their extended family. Our local family fled with their relatives from Syria to Turkey due to the conflict in Syria and were housed in a refugee camp. After our local family emigrated to the United States, their extended family stayed in Turkey for safety. They are now victims of the earthquake in Turkey. The Bakeer family’s grandmother, three aunts and 12 cousins were evacuated from a crumbling building after the earthquake. 

Luckily, they are unharmed, however, they do not have shelter, food or clothes. BPB is sending assistance directly to the family (in Turkish currency) and seeks additional donations to ease their suffering. $500 provides a month of shelter, clothing and food for the family. If you are interested in helping them, please donate at www.buildingpeacefulbridges.org. There will be specific instructions on the website on how to earmark donations directly to the Bakeer extended family.