The New Canadians Centre has launched an urgent appeal for funds to support Ukrainians who come to Peterborough and Northumberland through a special federal program.
The federal government recently created the Canada Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study while in Canada. Through the program, displaced Ukrainians will be able to stay in Canada as temporary residents for up to three years.
“This is a special pathway not typically applied to refugee resettlement,” reads a media release from the New Canadians Centre. “NCC is deeply concerned because there is no resettlement funding offered by the federal government for people arriving through this program and displaced Ukrainians will have very limited access to income supports.”
According to NCC executive director Andy Cragg, who addressed Peterborough City Council at its meeting on Monday (March 28), at least 70 Ukrainians have arrived or are expected to arrive in Peterborough or Northumberland through the federal program.
That’s why the non-profit organization is seeking to raise $20,000 for its client emergency fund, which provides support for basic needs including food, shelter, and medical treatment.
“In the last two years, NCC staff have been working with an unparalleled number of individuals and families in crisis,” reads the media release. “The funds raised will support those fleeing Ukraine and other newcomers in times of need.”
Donations can be made online at nccpeterborough.ca/donate-now or by cheque made out to “New Canadians Centre”.
Any additional donations will go to the organization’s Peterborough Welcome Fund which enables it to provide programs and services to respond to urgent and emerging needs of clients arriving from anywhere in the world.
On Wednesday (March 30) from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., the New Canadians Centre is also hosting a virtual information session on local and federal responses to the war in Ukraine. The organization will share information on the CUAET program, private sponsorship, and how to support Ukrainians locally and abroad. Attendees will also have a chance to hear from local families who have been affected by the crisis in Ukraine.
You can register for the free session on Zoom at bit.ly/NCC_Ukraine.
The session will be limited to 100 participants, but the recording will be posted on social media and on the New Canadians Centre website at nccpeterborough.ca after the event.
This story has been updated with additional information.
