A fundraising concert in support of Syrian refugee families now living in Winnipeg is being held at the Park Theatre tonight.

The benefit concert is being put on by the South Osborne Syrian Refugee Initiative, which is sponsoring three families consisting of a total of 13 people.

Matthew Lawrence is the co-founder of the Initiative. He says they're trying to raise a total of $150,000, and currently sit somewhere close to $120,000. The goal used to be $100,000, says Lawrence, but there are now added expenses SOSRI is trying to cover.

 

 

 

Lawrence says even though they haven't reached their fundraising goal yet, tonight's show will be a celebration because the families are here and they're safe.

The event will feature Syrian food, with members of the sponsored families helping out in the preparation. Savory and sweet treats, like dolmas, kibbeh, samosas, and baklava, will be for sale.

All proceeds from the concert will go to fund living expenses for the families.

Doors open at 7 tonight. Tickets are $25.

Acts include JD Edwards, Scott Nolan and Katie Murphy.

Those who can't make the concert but wish to donate can do so online at the group's GoFundMe page. Cheques can also be made out to "Churchill Park United Church – Syrian Refugees."