Notes
Key findings
Private spronsorship is effective for bringing refugees to Canada
All three refugees programs (government-assisted refugees (GARs), privately-sponsored refugees (PSRs), and the blended refugee program (BVORs)) were largely successful in bringing in Syrian refugees to safe places in Canada.
PSRs seemed to benefit from the personal attention, care, and networks provided by their sponsors.
Challenges among all three streams:
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learning English
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finding employment
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refugees were not sufficiently prepared to become financially independent after the government support ended at one year
Key recommendations
Move from a one-size-fits-all approach to LINC to a more diversified program attentive to the needs of different learners; Adopt bridge-to-employment programs similar to those in Ontario and Germany to facilitate employment opportunities for refugees.
Gaps identified
LINC programs could be improved to better meet the needs of various refugee learners; Bridge to employment in a barrier for refugees; PSRs need more settlement supports than they currently receive
Key populations
Syrian refugees
Community organizations
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers; Islamic Family and Social Service Association; Action for Healthy Communities; Catholic Social Service & Lethbridge Family Services
Location
Edmonton, Alberta; Lethbridge, Alberta
Integration timeline
At what point during the integration process the study was conducted?
