Recently some CRS representatives were lucky enough to be invited to a celebration, marking the granting of permanent residency to Vinefreeda Kaneshan and her two daughters, Piumetharshika (Piume) and Mary. CRS has supported the family since 2016 with good neighbour volunteer support.
This family had been living with uncertainty for 13 years, as they sought protection from persecution from the Australian government. Piume and Mary grew up in Australia and wanted nothing more than to be able to contribute to the country that they hoped would provide them with a safe haven. Their mother struggled at great cost to her health to provide an income for her family in any employment she could find. Throughout those 13 years, there were many local individuals and agencies that stepped up to provide what assistance they could.
It’s not hard to imagine the relief this decision to grant permanency has brought to this family. To express their gratitude to the local community that has supported them throughout the past 13 years they provided a delicious lunch for us all. It was certainly a moving occasion, a testament to this extraordinarily resilient family and to the difference that kindness and compassion can make.
The smiles in the photos speak louder than these words!