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A Place to Belong: Stories from Newcomers is a compilation of 19 stories of the experiences of immigrants and former refugees as they became new residents of Grey-Bruce. The Ginger Press out of Owen Sound published this beautifully written collection in 2021. 

On Saturday, Apr. 22, Bruce County Public Library will host a panel consisting of A Place to Belong editors Joan Beecroft, Dana Benson, and Donna Jansen, with new-to-Grey Bruce residents Sharon Safra, Raquell Yang, and Muna Shrestha.

Ms. Beecroft, a daughter of immigrants, is also a collector of stories. She is currently publishing her third collection of local stories.

Ms. Jansen spends her retirement volunteering in refugee settlement activities and is an author of children’s books.

Ms. Safra is currently the financial literacy program coordinator with United Way of Bruce Grey and is a passionate advocate for vulnerable and marginalized populations.

Ms. Yang moved to Owen Sound from Taiwan in 2018 with her husband. She's the local artist who graced us with the large mural on the side of the Grey Gallery in downtown Owen Sound.

Ms. Shrestha emigrated to Canada from Nepal and is on the board of directors for Welcoming Communities Grey Bruce.

Each of these incredible panel members will bring an array of stories and share insight into the services currently available in Grey Bruce.

Open to the public, the event will start at 1:00 p.m., at the Port Elgin Branch, 708 Goderich Street. Refreshments will be available.

This is a unique opportunity to learn more about Grey-Bruce, and hear our neighbours stories.

Copies of A Place to Belong will be made available for purchase during the event. Or you can place a hold on a copy through the online Library Catalogue.

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source: media release, Bruce County Library