The Cochrane Syrian Refugee Sponsorship Group is closer to being able to sponsor a family from the war-torn Middle Eastern country in Cochrane.
“We’re actively working on all the logistical work needed to support a family here,” said Liz Giles, head of the group’s co-ordinating committee. “With enough support from the community, we could see a family here within weeks.”
The first breakthrough for the group has been the creation of a partnership with the Mount Saint Francis Retreat in Cochrane, which will allow those donating to the sponsorship effort to receive official tax receipts.
Donations are now being sought and should be written out to “Franciscan Friars.” Donors may add “Syrian refugee campaign” to their cheques. Cheques can be dropped off at the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) office at the corner of 2nd Ave. and 2nd St. in Cochrane.
A bonus for the group is the Retreat’s experience in refugee sponsorship, and Father Dennis in particular. As a result, an application for a refugee family is already being prepared, and Calgary Catholic Immigration Services have a family ready for Cochrane as soon as the local group is ready.
The federal government requires that a sponsoring group guarantee the living costs for a refugee family for up to a year. For a family of five, that is estimated at a minimum of $30,000.
Workshops may be available for those interested in volunteering. Anyone interested in joining the group or learning more of its activities, are invited to contact Liz Giles, at [email protected], or Jackie Shier at [email protected]
