In 2007 the Dalai Lama asked the Canadian government to consider allowing exiled Tibetans who are currently living in impoverished settlements in northeastern India to resettle in Canada.

Thousands of Tibetan families living in these remote regions are stateless and have few opportunities for self-sufficiency. They may never have the chance to realize their potential.

The Canadian government agreed to welcome 1,000 exiled Tibetans from Arunachal Pradesh region over five years.

Project Tibet Society (PTS) is overseeing this project, working with the Canadian government, the Dalai Lama’s representatives and Tibetan groups across Canada. They are looking for volunteers to form sponsorship Groups of Five — five or more local residents who will guarantee support for a Tibetan family for their first year in Canada. PTS will provide training and guidance for the groups throughout the year.

A group is forming on the Sunshine Coast to bring two or more of these Tibetan families here, perhaps as early as this fall.

Members of PTS will be in Sechelt to give a public presentation about the project from 2 to 4 p.m. on April 28 in the Arts Studio at the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre.

There are currently seven confirmed sponsors on the Coast and more people considering being sponsors or helping with financial support. The goal is for at least 10 sponsors. Household items will be needed for when the families strike out on their own and volunteers for tasks such as trips to visit the Tibetan community in Vancouver and help becoming acquainted and involved with our culture and community.

For more information contact Janet Cotgrave at 604-885-3602 or email janet cotgrave@hotmail.com.

— Submitted