Why Welcome Refugee Claimants?

In recent years, public sentiment toward refugees has shifted, often becoming less welcoming. Yet, the call of the Gospel reminds us to embrace the stranger and provide refuge for the vulnerable.

Join us for a morning of education, storytelling, and discussion as we address the challenges refugee claimants face when they arrive in Canada, particularly around housing and poverty. Together, we will explore how churches and individuals can respond to these pressing needs with compassion, resources, and practical solutions.

What to Expect:

• Storytelling: Hear firsthand stories from individuals with lived experience as refugee claimants in Canada.
• Education: Learn about the current realities of poverty and housing challenges faced by refugee claimants.
• Theological Reflection: Consider the Gospel’s call to respond to the stranger and how churches and individuals can take the lead in providing welcome, community, and housing.
• Inspiration & Resources: Be inspired by those who have answered the call to welcome and receive tools to equip your church and home to support refugee claimants.
• Roundtable Discussions: Engage in brainstorming and dialogue with others interested in developing a response to the current challenges faced by refugees and refugee claimants.

Goals of the Event:

• To deepen our understanding of the Gospel's mandate to welcome and support refugees.
• To foster connections between churches, individuals, and agencies in Abbotsford and Metro Vancouver.
• To explore opportunities for affordable housing and community support for refugee claimants.

Who Should Attend:
This event is for church leaders, individuals, and anyone passionate about extending welcome and hospitality to refugee claimants in our communities.