Kamloops Ukrainian church prepares for potential immigrant families

He and members of the church have been collecting money to send overseas as well as preparing for newcomers.

“We started to create a network of volunteers. There are some parishioners, but also — and I’m so grateful to Kamloops community — strangers are calling and saying, ‘Well I can offer housing, I can offer transportation, I can offer help with finding a job,’” he said.

At Kamloops Immigrant Services, they’re preparing for potential Ukrainian immigrant families. Though there aren’t any families specifically on their way to Kamloops, they are organizing to get ready for the arrival of two to three families.

“[They will be ] connecting with some of our volunteers and staff members to learn about how to survive in our community, different life skills, how to take public transportation, where is the recreation, how to move around our community and how to make friends,” said Liza Ferris, case manager with KIS. “Because the feeling of belonging is one of the most important things a newcomer needs to feel.”

Some community members have been digging deep to donate in unorthodox ways.

“Today, one person came and offered Air Miles, to ask if she can help with the expense to bring someone [from Ukraine]. People are contacting us with various offers,”

And when the families do eventually arrive, Wasylinko is excited to welcome them.

“[We will] welcome them with Ukraine tradition, bread and salt,” he laughed. “And language. That would probably be comforting.”

“And assure them that we are there for them here. And they are in a safe place.”

by Stephanie Swensrude

Kamloops Ukrainian church prepares for potential immigrant families

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