My Three Months at Matthew House

When I first arrived at Matthew House, I felt a whirlwind of emotions. This was my first home in Canada, and while the warmth of the place enveloped me, I couldn't shake off the nervousness that accompanied me on this new journey. I was welcomed by warm faces and a welcoming atmosphere as soon as I walked through the door. I was greeted warmly by both the staff and the residents, who made it obvious that I was more than simply a visitor, I was a member of their community. 

With people from all around the world, Matthew House is a cultural mosaic where different cultures coexist within the house while maintaining our distinct identities. Everybody brought a different tapestry of stories, customs, and experiences, even if many were from Africa. People with diverse backgrounds were all around me; some had excellent degrees, while others had a wealth of professional experience. Despite our varied origins, we all had the same objective: to find comfort and support in our new surroundings.  

This sense of community was made possible in large part by the directors and volunteers of Matthew House. Everything they did, from planning events to just listening when we needed someone to talk to, showed their undying support. They made us feel welcome, saw to it that our requirements were satisfied, and provided us with the tools we needed to adjust to life in Canada. 

As part of our daily routine, we engaged in house chores that were both entertaining and challenging. Keeping the house neat and tidy was a collective effort, from doing laundry to cutting the grass outside. Cooking, however, proved to be a particularly daunting task for many of us, especially those of us from Africa. The kitchen became a hub of activity, filled with laughter and the occasional mishap. One memorable incident involved the fire alarm going off unexpectedly while we were cooking. The shrill sound sent us into frenzy, but the swift response from the Ottawa Fire Protection Centre reminded us that we were in good hands. 

The best part of my stay at Matthew House was the dinner parties we had, out of all the things we did together. These evenings were full of variety foods, stimulating discussions, and a feeling of family-like fellowship. Gathering around the table, we would talk about our refugee cases, exchange words in our native tongues, and share stories about our own nations. We developed strong bonds and mutual understanding as a result of these encounters, turning strangers into friends. 

When I think back on my three months at Matthew House, I'm struck by how much I'll miss our evening get-togethers and the relationships we developed. I yearned for a sense of community in this new country, and it was fostered by our mutual support, laughing, and shared experiences. While my journey is far from over, the memories made during my time at Matthew House will forever hold a special place in my heart—a true testament to the power of kindness and connection in a world that can often feel overwhelming. 

ST 

ON, Canada