Settling in a new home

OLGA LIVSHIN

"We came to Canada so our children can grow up in a safe place," said Jessica Jaivan. She and her family – husband and two young children – emigrated from Mexico in June 2008. Upon settling in Vancouver, they immediately became involved in the life of the local Jewish community. Among a score of other newcomers, the Jaivans also benefited from the help of the Jewish Family Service Agency (JFSA).

"During the first few months, the agency helped us financially," said Jaivan. "And we're very grateful." But financial support is only one of the services provided by JFSA to the community's new immigrants. Other programs include resettlement and integration, employment and counseling services, various work- shops and others.

"We serve about 300 clients annually," said Charlotte Katzen, director of resettlement and vocational services at JFSA. "We used to have more, as many as 1,000 a year, but with immigration down, the numbers are now more manageable. We can give each client more attention."

According to Katzen, the majority of the agency's clients come from Russia. Only about 15 percent are from Latin America. The difference is that unlike Russia, most Latin American countries have strongly identified Jewish communities. Families emigrating from Mexico or Argentina are already steeped in Jewish tradition, as is the Jaivan family. Many of them speak Hebrew and English as well as their native tongue. As well, children often attended Jewish schools in their home countries.

"It has always been important for us to be part of the community," said Jaivan. "We found new friends through the Jewish community here ... and emotional support."

Providing emotional support is part of the job description for JFSA counselors. Miri Tal, resettlement and integration counselor, pointed out: "Often, we have to support whole families, help them to think positive.... In some cases, we have to teach people basic skills – how to be independent, where to find information, where to shop, how to live on a tight budget."

Despite all the help from JFSA, immigration can be hard on anyone. Cultural differences are huge. "We knew it wouldn't be easy," Jaivan admitted. "We came prepared for a difficult start. But it's so much better for the children. We wouldn't go back."

Her family's story is typical for many recent immigrants. Only one of them – her husband – is working, while she is a full-time student at the University of British Columbia, studying for her master's degree in public health. She already has a master's degree in cellular biology from Mexico but she feels the need for a local diploma to further her Canadian career. "When I graduate, I might be able find a good job, so my husband can have a breather, perhaps find a better job." For now, they live in a small place and are using up their savings, but they do feel safe and happy. Their bet is on the future: "It's better than we expected," she said.

Unfortunately, not everyone is as optimistic as Jaivan. Many new immigrants have idealistic expectations in the beginning. Faced with sobering reality, they frequently fall into depression or develop other mental health issues, making the jobs of their JFSA counselors very demanding.

For Katzen, working at JFSA is more than a place to make a salary; it is a vocation she loves. "Sometimes, we have to get our clients out of a pickle, find resources for them or advocate on their behalf. We're making a difference."

Tal agreed with Katzen. "We help our clients to build their self-confidence," she said. Three years ago, she herself emigrated from Israel and came to live in Vancouver. "JFSA helped me to find my first job. Now I work here and help others." For Tal, the most gratifying moment of her work is when a client calls with good news. Someone succeeded in a new job. Others found new friends. "What we do brings fruitful results," she said proudly.

Olga Livshin is a Vancouver freelance writer. She is available for contract work. Contact her at [email protected].

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