THUNDER BAY — International students attending school in Thunder Bay were treated to a Canadian Christmas holiday dinner on Tuesday evening.
With the help of local businesses and individuals, about 100 meals were prepared and handed out to Confederation College and Lakehead University students through the pickup window of the Hub Bazaar on Victoria Avenue.
In normal circumstances, the students would have gathered together for the event, but COVID-19 restrictions forced a change at a time when many students from overseas are facing financial and social challenges.
Organizer Abu Hena Mustofa Kamal said the dinner is a way to allow students to feel like they belong in Thunder Bay.
"It's lonely for a lot of people during the holiday...With the pandemic, it's really difficult for newcomers to find the space to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season. We thought 'We have to find a new way to spread the joy, and sharing how amazing people in Thunder Bay are' ", Kamal said.
While the meal was being handed out, Hub Bazaar owner Lori Paris shared details of a new initiative to support international students, which will be rolled out in the coming months.
The not-for-profit ASSIST Thunder Bay financial aid program is aimed at helping students pay their bills so they can complete their studies in Thunder Bay.
