The Government of Canada has committed to settling at least 40,000 Afghan refugees in Canada by the end of 2023. Nearly 200,000 Ukrainian citizens have arrived in Canada between January 1, 2022 and March 26, 2023. In many cases, these individuals have fled unthinkable circumstances, and are seeking safety, security and stability here in Canada.
From experience, we know the best way to welcome this influx of newcomers to Canada is to help them build local community connections and financial stability – but we can’t do it alone. We need the support of individuals, communities and businesses to help newcomers make Canada home.
How can I help?
Individuals & communities
We encourage individuals and communities to consider becoming a private sponsor of an Afghan individual or family. This is a meaningful undertaking that benefits not only the refugee(s) impacted, but also the communities where they settle. Lifeline Afghanistan can facilitate the creation of groups of 5 individuals who will help in the resettlement of each Afghan family.
For those who want to volunteer their time to help Lifeline Afghanistan to resettle an Afghan newcomer to Canada, we have funding through generous donors but need community groups and individuals to dedicate time towards helping in the resettlement process. To be eligible, each member of the group must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, be at least 18 years old, live in the same community where the refugee is expected to settle, and agree to give settlement support for the length of the sponsorship (usually 1 year). Lifeline Afghanistan case workers can help to complete your application. Please contact us at lifelineafghanistan@torontomu.ca for more information or to sign up!
Businesses
With the tailored Lifeline Afghanistan portal Powered by Magnet, it’s easy to hire a newcomer and encourage other businesses in your community to follow suit.
You can also put an increased emphasis on creating a workplace that values diversity and encourages cultural exchange. Among the possible activities are:
- arranging multicultural social gatherings
- supporting other community groups or organizations that help refugees
- establishing a mentoring program for newcomers
Learn more
Email us at Lifelinechallenge@torontomu.ca to learn how you can assist, or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates on Lifeline Challenge’s initiatives.
Donate
Not sure where to start? Donations of any amount are welcome, and help to ensure that newcomers are able to access the support they need as they settle in Canada.
Sign up to receive emails from Lifeline Challenge
It’s easy to get involved
Opportunities for individuals and organizations to support newcomers to Canada range from individual or corporate mentorship, job placements to private sponsorship and donations. Or sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest information on Lifeline Challenge programs and activities, and see how you can make a difference in the lives of newcomers to Canada.
