The Barakat family has been living in Canada since 2016, after fleeing the war in Syria. Now Manal and Ahmad Barakat and their children Zain, Zaid, and Amir are ready to build their permanent home in Sault.

Since their arrival, the family of five has been living in a two-bedroom apartment. It has been very stressful, especially for Ahmad, who relies on a wheelchair.

Manal said that when the organization "Habitat for Humanity" told them they would get their own home.

She said, "I could not believe it, I am extremely happy." Despite the difficulties in adapting to the new life and learning a different language, they enjoy their new life. Ahmad added, "I have many new friends here, I am very happy to come to Canada."

Mary said that the Barakat family applied several times for a home; however, none of the homes being built could meet their needs so far.

Katie Plant, the Executive Director of "Habitat for Humanity," said that the Barakat family's new home will be completed this year, and we hope within the next month the house will be finished before the end of 2022, so they will be ready to move before winter."

One of the requirements for buying a "Habitat for Humanity" home is completing 500 hours of volunteer work at "Habitat ReStore," which the family looks forward to completing. Meanwhile, Manal and Ahmad said they plan to hold a party when they move into the new home.