Canadians have the enviable opportunity to not only live in this great country with freedoms & opportunities, but we also have the opportunity to sponsor refugees through our government's Private Sponsorship of Refugees program.

When we participate in refugee sponsorship, people who have been forcibly displaced because of circumstances entirely beyond their control can arrive as Permanent Residents to live in our neighbourhoods with us, to attend our schools, to work among us, to enrich our communities.

Although we don't hear as much in the news, the situation for those who are living it is as much a crisis today as it has ever been. People are still risking their lives in the pursuit of freedom and to avoid war and death. Risky water crossings, paying smugglers, hiding out in 8' x 10' rooms - this is the norm for millions. Conflict and persecution in many parts of the world is rising.

The UNHCR reports that never before has the world seen these levels of displacement.

Resettlement in another country is the only durable solution for many. You can be a part of that solution, and will find information and resources here to help you.

If you cannot sponsor a family to resettle in Canada, you still have the opportunity to bring hope and friendship to many. Technology today means that we can have back and forth conversations with people on the other side of the world.

We can be a listening ear, a friendly face on their screen, an encourager to someone who is certain they have been forgotten in the world.

The AGC would love to assist you in your efforts to reach out to ease the suffering of those who have lost so much, to make a way for those who are trapped in unimaginable circumstances to find hope and freedom.

Explore the website, and contact us for further conversation and help.

Susan Davis
AGC Compassion & Justice Coordinator