News & Stories

Updates from the Frontlines of Peace.

A Father’s Persistence: Francis and the Path to Reunification

For four painful years, Francis lived with the heartbreak of not seeing his three sons in Calgary. Like many South Sudanese parents adjusting to life in Canada, he was trying to navigate unfamiliar systems, cultural barriers, and the long-term effects of displacement and trauma. Over time, his children became disconnected from the family and eventually experienced homelessness. This loss deeply affected Francis, who longed not only to find his sons again, but also to restore his family and reconnect them to their community.

Francis’s turning point came when he attended a NILECAPD parenting seminar. These seminars are part of the organization’s work in Canada to equip newcomer parents with the tools they need to support their children while adjusting to a new society. At NILECAPD, family support goes beyond one-time advice. The organization understands that displacement, trauma, and resettlement can strain family relationships, especially when young people face homelessness, identity struggles, or social isolation. Through culturally informed guidance, family advocacy, and community-based intervention, NILECAPD helps parents and youth rebuild trust and find pathways forward.

With the support of NILECAPD staff, Francis was able to reconnect with his sons and begin rebuilding those damaged relationships. Over time, his children returned to the family and became active again in the South Sudanese community. Their story is one of reconciliation, patience, and the healing power of community. It also reflects NILECAPD’s broader commitment to family reunification, youth outreach, and homelessness prevention in Canada.

Today, Francis is no longer only a beneficiary of support—he is also an active volunteer with NILECAPD, using his own experience to encourage and assist others. His story shows that when families are given the right support, restoration is possible. For others facing separation, homelessness, or cultural disconnection, NILECAPD offers a compassionate bridge back to family, community, and hope.