The Grey Bruce Local Immigration Partnership (GBLIP) has launched an online resource for supporting Ukrainian newcomers.
It’s being done in response to the community’s growing desire to support Ukrainians fleeing the war and help them to settle in our region.
The page contains information about resources and supports available at the local, provincial, and federal levels to help community members who are considering hosting Ukrainian newcomers.
The Resources for Supporting Ukrainian Newcomers page can be accessed at www.greybrucelip.ca/resources-ukrainians, or by clicking the “Ukrainian Newcomers” tab on www.greybrucelip.ca.
The organization says its a growing resource and GBLIP invites community organization members to email outreach specialist, May Ip at May.Ip@grey.ca to share information on relevant news and initiatives.
Community members who would like to host a Ukrainian family, or have accommodation available, are asked to contact GBLIP coordinator, Deepikaa Gupta at Deepikaa.Gupta@grey.ca.
Grey County Warden Selwyn Hicks says, “As millions of Ukrainians are forced out of their homes, several community groups, organizations, and families in our region are eager to open their doors and their arms to offer support. I’m touched by the outpouring of kindness, and I know raising awareness of resources by Grey Bruce Local Immigration Partnership will make settling in our region an easier process for all involved.”
Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson says in a statement, “Ukrainian refugees are beginning to arrive in Canada, and some will arrive in Grey Bruce. We are grateful for the response we have had from local Grey Bruce residences to get involved and help Ukrainian refugees. Providing residents with the resources they need to help welcome and support refugees will make this challenging time and transition more comforting.”
In 2020, Bruce and Grey Counties received funding from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to administer GBLIP – a collaborative, community initiative designed to improve the integration of newcomers in Grey Bruce.
The organization says its Settlement Strategy includes four strategic priorities and was the outcome of consultations with over 60 community stakeholders. It is adhered to by the Local Immigration Partnership Council that currently consists of 57 members.