There have been many accomplishments within the last year in the activity of the Somali Immigrant Aid Organization through the hard work and co-operation of the Board Members, Staff and Volunteers. 

As the crisis in Somalia escalates, the demand for our settlement and counselling services continues to increase dramatically. We recognize that through the maintenance of an office and paid staff members, we have increased our community visibility and gained respect from fellow Social Service providers. 

Somali immigrants have suffered greatly due to the civil war and famine. After such destruction, their memories may be only part of their Country that remains alive. Therefore, it is important for S.I.A.O. to provide special settlement programs for our community. 

The Somali immigrants face many obstacles in accessing services in the Canadian system because Somalis have experienced a fear of Government, Government agencies and highly structured social system. S.I.A.O. has the enormous task of trying to fulfil these complex and compound needs to the Somali community in Ontario. 

Currently we provide many services to the Somali community on a small budget. Most of our Community Workers work for little or nothing at all. Education and helping our community to integrate in to the Canadian society not only ensures greater prosperity but also ensures at least for the Somalis living in Canada, that there will be a future. 

Thank you.