From 0 to 100%: Christian Action
Totally Changed My Life
My name is Fuad. I came to Hong Kong from Somalia ten years ago when I was just a boy. I came alone without my family and the first placed I lived was in Yuen Long with Somalian roommates. My roommates told me about Christian Action – Centre for Refugees (CFR) and how they helped new arrivals. At the time, I did not speak any English and was worried how I could explain my situation to CFR. Luckily a friend took me to CFR’s office in Chungking Mansion and helped to translate.
The first person I met at CFR was Olek. He was very kind and he introduced me to Jonnet, Jeff and the rest of the team. I told Olek about the warfare and ethnic persecution in Somalia and my own situation; he explained how he would help me. The first thing he gave me was a CFR card so that I could eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at the centre. Then he gave me transport money after he learned that I was living in Yuen Long. I was so relieved and happy because I really had nothing. Olek even gave me a tooth brush that day.
Three days later, Olek called and told me that he had already found an English class for me! From then on, I went to English class two times a week in Tsim Sha Tsui. In Somalia, I lived in a village, going to the city was too far, so I was really happy I had an opportunity to go to the city by MTR for my classes. I was a bit worried the first time I went to class, but when I arrived I realised everyone was in the same situation. This helped me gain confidence that I could be one of the best students.
With the help of CFR, I was able to attend secondary school in Hong Kong. Once I got enrolled, CFR gave me money for books, uniforms, and transport. I received SFAA government support, but the Government subsidy was always 2-3 months late. It was unpredictable and without the extra support from CFR, I am not sure what I would have done. I will never forget how Olek told me they would make special exception to help me with money for my education even though I had missed the regular deadline. CFR even helped me with uniforms for football that I enjoyed playing so much.
After I graduated from school, I had a baby and got married. When I announced my baby’s birth, everyone was very happy for me. CFR gave me baby clothes, diapers, milk, shampoo and told me to come back every month for more support. My son was about 6 months old when I married his mom. I remember what a beautiful day it was. CFR had organized a trip for Disneyland and I was able to take my wife and baby in the morning before I got married later that day. Jeff and Reto from CFR celebrated with us and my family and I were so happy.
When my son was 2 years old, CFR helped him get enrolled in early childhood education and by 3 years old, CFR helped get him enrolled in an international school - Woodland. To have my son go to such a school made me feel so proud and good; I felt like I was no longer a refugee. Because I wasn’t allowed to work, of course I never had money to pay for any of the school books, activities, photos or even transportation. I am so thankful for CFR’s help with all of these things that helped my son start life with all these opportunities like any other kid.
CFR totally changed my life: from zero to 100%! It’s not easy to get a job in Hong Kong and after my refugee status was determined, CFR helped me find work at an international 5 star hotel. I couldn’t believe it! I interviewed, got the job, got a salary and even opened a bank account! CFR has helped me do all of this! Even after I started working, I never felt like I was on my own. When my wife got sick, I tried to take her to the public hospital three times, but no one would help us. I called CFR and they were able to get us a private hospital appointment and I was so grateful that she soon got better.
When the pandemic started, CFR sent me information by WhatsApp on how to stay safe and they even provided my family and I with masks and sanitizer. Even though CFR had to close the centre for a few weeks, they were still in contact with us, always thinking about us, checking in with us. The pandemic restrictions forced my work place to close and I was also suspended from my work. When I didn’t get my salary anymore I was in a difficult situation and CFR, once again, were there to help me. They gave me a stipend to pay for rent and food. I know I can always count on CFR to help me with any problem, big or small.
CFR changed my life. I went from being a refugee to feeling like I am a Hong Kong person. Through my work, I was able to meet local people and become friends with them. My local friends invited me for dinner, we laughed together and shared stories and I felt happiness and love for them.
Now it is very bittersweet to leave Hong Kong because I will miss my friends and I am not able to give back to CFR after they experienced the fire. I am excited to start my future, but I’ll never forget where I’ve come from and the second family I have in Hong Kong. I am leaving for the U.S. with a suitcase given to me by CFR and filled with other items that CFR gave me. God bless them for their genuine care and kindness.
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