In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Canadian government has committed to humanitarian support for Ukrainians and has opened up pathways for Ukrainian refugees. At Wesley, we are working with community partners to welcome Ukrainian refugees who arrive locally and use our expertise to help with this resettlement. Our team typically works with the Canadian Government through IRCC to resettle Government Assisted Refugees (GARs).
Click here to make a secure one-time donation to Wesley’s Ukraine Refugee Fund
Here are our latest updates:
- The Canadian government has created immigration pathways for people affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including accepting an unlimited number of Ukrainians through temporary visa pathways for open work permits and study permits. Learn more here.
- We are creating a new Wesley-funded staff position to specifically help Ukrainians that are arriving locally and need assistance navigating the immigration and community systems. We are using fundraising dollars to fund this position. We are also considering other ways we can support with the local response and will use any donations directed to Ukrainian refugees to help people arriving locally. At this time, we are not accepting clothing, furniture or other donated items for Ukrainian refugees.
- We are collaborating with Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council, the City of Hamilton and other organizations. Learn more here.
- Wesley’s work is typically with Government Assisted Refugees and we continue to receive ongoing arrivals from a variety of countries, including Afghanistan, Syria and African countries, where people are fleeing war and persecution and cannot return home. Learn more about this response.