The Brantford Immigration Partnership (BIP) hosted the Ukrainian Relief Community Forum on May 17, 2022, where over 70 members of the public attended and were informed of the ongoing response from local agencies supporting Ukrainian nationals arriving in Brantford and means by which the public can provide assistance.
A link is now available to watch the recording of the Ukrainian Relief Community Forum, along with several helpful resources at Brantford.ca/BIP.
“We have had six families and expect an additional 24 families in the coming weeks,” said Irene Stepus from Brantford’s Slavic Full Gospel Church. “We are hard at work finding Brantford Ukrainian nationals housing and jobs. We are currently accepting local grocery store gift card donations to help support families as well.”
“The overwhelming support of the community has been incredible,” said Stepus. “A neighbour brought over a bicycle to one of the children this week. It just made their day and gives them such joy because they had to leave their bicycles and toys at home. The smiles on their faces, makes it all worth the effort.”
The resources available are all translatable in several languages and include a Welcome Guide for Ukrainians, a YMCA volunteer form for services such as housing, interpretation services, and employment, referral information for local employers looking to hire Ukrainians, links to donation and volunteer opportunities and contact information for leaders in key sectors. It is BIP’s goal that the resources will be utilized to coordinate the settlement of Ukrainians and harness the generosity of Brantford residents and employers who wish to be involved. Resources are available at Brantford.ca/BIP.
“The discussion held at the community forum was very constructive,” said Lily Lumsden, Senior Regional Manager at YMCA Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford. “It is wonderful to see the community come together and share resources and ideas to support Ukrainian families.”
A recording of the virtual Ukrainian Relief Community Forum is available on the City’s YouTube channel. Topics covered in the video include information for the public on plans in place to facilitate the settlement of Ukrainian nationals in Brantford through a series of presentations led by several community leaders representing agencies including the YMCA of Hamilton Burlington Brantford, Wesley, Grand River Community Health Centre, and St. Leonard’s Community Services and City of Brantford’s Community Services and more.
The BIP launched in April 2020 to help build a better understanding of the unique perspectives of immigrants, strengthen community partnerships to enhance services, and celebrate cultural diversity within our city. This is a valuable opportunity to recognize local newcomers and share how they contribute to the economic, social, civic, and cultural growth of Brantford.
