Community-based vision |
| Romero House is very different from the standard model of a shelter with hired counselors and social service personnel. The fundamental practice of Romero House is the community-based vision of 'accompaniment', living together as good neighbours. Over the years, this vision has evolved. At first, the 'neighbours' were the volunteers living in the Romero House buildings. Today, people from the neighbourhood around Romero House and the wider community are also involved in welcoming refugees and helping them to settle in Canada. "There is an African saying that it takes a village to raise a child. At Romero House we say that it takes a neighbourhood to welcome a refugee." - Mary Jo Leddy, Founder of Romero House Besides serving the residents of the four houses, Romero House also responds to the needs of numerous other refugees who come seeking assistance. The community has served as an extended family for many during vulnerable times. A unique aspect of Romero House is that almost all of the settlement work is done on a voluntary basis. The core of this is a group of interns, young people who work 40 hours a week at the Romero House office and live in the houses with refugees. These interns receive only room and board and a $165 monthly stipend. What makes Romero House so special is the pervasive sense of community. The relationship between interns and refugees is not one of landlord and tenant, but of supportive and caring neighbours. The interns and refugees themselves work hard to amaintain a strong community life that includes regular gatherings, outings, activities, and meals. Many former residents are eager to be involved in and continue to contribute to the Romero House community after they have left. Over the years, this sense of community has spilled out beyond the walls of the four houses, enriching the lives of those who live in the surrounding neighbourhood. |
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