Growth
Grassroots Response is expanding its mission. We now support not only Ukrainian newcomers but also refugee claimants from around the world as they begin their new lives in Canada. Together, we foster a welcoming community where everyone discovers hope, support, and a fresh start.
Ukrainian families are still arriving in Canada and can arrive until March 31, 2025.
Did you know that 286,000 Ukrainian newcomers arrived by March 31, 2024?
We are collaborating with COMPASS Refugee Centre, whose mission is to assist, accompany, and advocate for refugee claimants in our community.
How we can help: Our support program
1. Housing Support
(Waterloo Region, Wellington, Guelph, Perth, Thunder Bay only)
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Guest Houses: We operate 14 guest houses throughout Ontario, providing safe and stable housing.
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Host Family Network: Connected over 250 host families to Ukrainian families, providing flexible and personalized housing solutions.
2. Housing Assistance
(Waterloo Region, Wellington, Guelph, Perth, Thunder Bay only)
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We have a dedicated team that helps newcomers find rental housing. They help Ukrainian refugees find suitable housing options and place ads with landlords who are interested in renting out their homes, even those with low credit scores or who are unemployed.
3. Job Search Assistance
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Job Selection: Partnerships with local businesses and employment agencies for job placement.
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Support: Assistance with creating a resume and preparing for interviews.
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English Classes: Virtual and in-person classes to improve language skills.
4. Social Integration and Support
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Social Connections: Volunteer programs and social events to reduce isolation.
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Psychological Support: Access to mental health counselors.
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Assistance with Household Needs: Providing essential items and food through donations and partnerships with food banks.
5. Language and Education
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Language Teachers: Conducting English classes online and in guest houses.
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School Registration Support: Assistance with registering children in schools and obtaining school supplies.
6. Specialized Support
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Translation Services: Facilitating communication between Ukrainians and service providers.
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Transportation Assistance: Providing transportation services to access necessary services.
7. Donation Assistance
(Waterloo, Guelph, Wellington, Perth and Thunder Bay Regions only)
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Volunteer Team: Searches for, collects, and delivers donations, such as furniture and household items, to refugee homes.
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Donation Distribution: Assist in locating items and ensuring families' needs are met.
8. Providing Opportunities through Volunteering
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Giving Back: Ukrainians become volunteers to give back to organizations and help other families.
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Skills Development: Gain experience in Canadian-style volunteering, improving social integration and professional skills.
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Building Relationships: Create new friendships and strengthen a sense of belonging in the community.
Our guest houses and host families are only available to people who
have a CUAET visa and who have fled the 2022 war or were away but their home was destroyed during the war
OR who are Refugee Claimants registered with Compass Refugee Center
Anyone with a CUAET visa can apply for any other assistance such as for food, clothing and social support
This program is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Canada-Ukraine Foundation. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to helping displaced Ukrainians rebuild their lives with dignity, care, and community.