Not too along after Negar and her family arrived in Canada, they met with Settlement Counsellor Sonya Daghighian to find out about how to connect with their new community. So, when Negar began to experience family and health issues a few months later, it was only natural that she would turn to University Settlement once again.

Not speaking English very well made the situation more difficult. Sonya and her colleague Maryam Moghaddam connected Negar with the health benefits that she needed and helped her navigate the Ontario Disability Support Program and Ontario Housing application process. They also connected Negar to Madison Community Services for additional continuing case management support.

“Knowing Sonya felt like my savior during my darkest days,” said Negar. “Maryam opened her wings like an angel to help me during my most difficult time dealing with severe health issues and loss of my father.

“I don’t know what would happen to me if I didn’t have you in my life,” said Negar. “God has been kind to me. Thank you.”