The Refugee Response Team operated by DIVERSEcity that is helping refugees settle in the Fraser Valley, including Abbotsford, will receive $54,786 – its second allocation of funding from the Refugee Readiness Fund.
Funding has been provided in two installments, with the first portion delivered in the spring and the remainder now based on updated settlement numbers.
Supported by the initial $70,599 through the $1 million Refugee Readiness Fund, the Refugee Response Team will identify and prioritize short-term community needs to support a coordinated approach to helping refugees.
Examples of the team’s work include providing links with employers or other labour market opportunities and coordinating community supports.
The teams have representatives from settlement organizations, private sponsors, churches, educators, health care providers and employers.
The Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills is continuing to engage with settlement communities across the province to ensure they have the capacity to support any current and incoming refugees.
“This investment will help provide the supports these individuals need to rebuild their lives,” said Mike de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford West.
Abbotsford South MLA Darryl Plecas said DIVERSEcity does “wonderful work” for newcomers, and the funds will support the services they rely on.
“Refugees are fleeing unimaginable circumstances, and are looking to build a new life and home here in B.C. – and we want to help them achieve this as quickly as possible,” said Simon Gibson, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission.