Ukrainians in B.C. Face Uncertainty as Funding for Refugee Services Ends
Home is a word that evokes the feeling of safety and comfort, but for Ukrainians in B.C. who are watching the destruction of their homeland, it causes acute pain.
“It is implemented in so many different ways through different war crimes that happen, through missile attacks, drone attacks,” said Ukrainian Marko Zolotarov, who now lives in B.C. and spoke with Global News.
Since 2022, more than one million Ukrainians have fled their country and come to Canada, with more than 200,000 settling in B.C. However, they are now facing more turmoil as they have learned that funding is coming to an end.
Programs in Jeopardy
A federal grant that provides crucial programs and benefits to refugees will end on March 31. This means programs that help Ukrainians learn English or train them for jobs will now be in limbo.
“They have 100s if not 1,000s of displaced Ukrainians who are currently receiving services but they know they’re not going to be able to in just a couple months,” said Sarosh Rizvi, Executive Director of AMSSA, Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Service Agencies of B.C.
Uncertainty for Refugees
Zolotarov said that a lot of Ukrainians do not yet have enough points to apply to be permanent residents. “I think that that’s a very significant gap,” he said. Right now, there are more questions than answers about how to fill that gap.
A Call to Action
Rizvi emphasized the need for a plan to offload the services being provided to displaced Ukrainians. “A lot of people currently receiving services, a lot of people currently receiving services and a ticking clock,” he said.
Conclusion
The uncertainty surrounding the funding for refugee services is a source of concern for those who have fled their homes in Ukraine. The fear of what will happen to them is a constant worry, and the lack of a clear plan for the future is causing anxiety and uncertainty.
FAQs
* What is the deadline for the federal grant?
The federal grant will end on March 31.
* What programs will be affected?
Programs that help Ukrainians learn English or train them for jobs will be in limbo.
* How many Ukrainians are receiving services?
There are 100s if not 1,000s of displaced Ukrainians currently receiving services.
* What is the next step?
There is a need for a plan to offload the services being provided to displaced Ukrainians.
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