Village of Hope – Canada

Village of Hope – Canada

Hello everyone,

My name is Saira. Many of you know me as a henna artist and experiential creator, and some of you may know that I am preparing to attempt a Guinness World Record on May 3rd, 2026. But what many of you also know about me is that I am an artist who believes deeply in supporting those in need and standing with communities facing hardship.

Today, I want to share some hopeful news with you.

What if I told you that one of our collective prayers may be manifesting into something real — a development project that aims to build 50 fully furnished, rent-free homes for approximately 600 refugees. This long-term initiative will provide stability, dignity, and safety for families who have experienced immense loss and displacement.

The project is envisioned on 30 acres of land and will include:

* Safe family housing

* A children’s playground

* A multi-faith community centre

* A greenhouse for food sustainability

* Community safety infrastructure

This does not mean we stop advocating for human rights, peace, and a ceasefire. We must continue to raise our voices, write to our MPs and MPPs, and stand firmly for justice. But it does give us hope - hope that can fuel our actions forward and help us build solutions that restore dignity and stability to families who have lost so much.

Earlier this year, through a representative from Droplets of Mercy Canada, I received a briefing about this development project and its vision. It is truly incredible.

In February 2025, I had the chance to meet several refugee families while volunteering at an event where I adorned children with henna. I still remember one little girl who kept returning for another design. She waited patiently in a line of more than 30 children, determined not to miss her turn. The girls were so excited to have their hands painted, and my friend and fellow artist Sharmin and I rolled up our sleeves to make space for every child we could at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Those moments stay with you.

This winter has been incredibly difficult for many families. Some are living in crowded homes, basements, or temporary spaces. A friend recently shared that she hired a Palestinian woman who lives in a one-bedroom basement apartment with her sister and two children. She recently received an eviction notice.

Where will she go?

Housing insecurity is not only a refugee issue. Across Canada, over 85,000 people experience homelessness, many due to hardship, displacement, and economic struggle. Every person deserves a safe place to sleep, warm food on the table, and the dignity of stability.

Helping children matters deeply, but children can only truly thrive when their families are supported, healthy, and safe.

On February 8th at Soiree Banquet Hall, I hosted a sold-out gathering of 50 incredible women and together we raised $6,200 in support of this initiative. Because of that momentum, I have expanded my fundraising goal.

My personal goal is to raise $30,000 by the Spring Equinox (Nowruz). With the $6,200 already raised, I am now working toward raising an additional $24,000 to reach this target. These funds will contribute toward a $1,000,000 down payment needed to launch this housing and community development project in Burlington, Ontario.

We are entering a season of transition and renewal. In a time when our world often feels divided, we have the opportunity to respond with compassion, justice, faith, and humanity.

If you have the capacity, I invite you to support this initiative by donating or sharing this fundraiser. Your contribution will help families rebuild their lives, find stability, and breathe a little easier.

You can also follow me on social media @breathofhenna add link to my social media here please to learn more about this initiative and inquire about how we can curate a beautiful community experience together to raise additional funds before March 28th. I deeply believe in my community and our allies, and I know that together we can create meaningful impact.

Thank you for your support.

May our collective efforts be accepted by our Creator, and may we always be surrounded by communities that act with compassion, dignity, and good faith.

With gratitude,

Saira