Vancouver’s emergency shelters feel the squeeze as refugee claims nearly double in B.C.

Vancouver Sun, Posted: Jan 11, 2024
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In this article by Sarah Grochowski, it is revealed that the number of asylum seekers in British Columbia has nearly doubled over the past year, exerting pressure on Vancouver’s emergency shelters. Between January and November 2023, 6,740 refugee claims were made in B.C., a significant increase from the 3,895 claims during the same period in 2022. Most of these claims were filed by individuals from Iran, Mexico, and Afghanistan.

Sabrina Dumitra, the director of programs for the Affiliation of Multicultural Societies and Service Agencies of B.C., highlighted the challenges faced by refugee claimants arriving in Canada. These individuals often lack formal housing and job support due to their immigration status, making it difficult to secure accommodation and employment. Dumitra urged the province to consider establishing a network of housing support for refugee claimants, as many of them exhaust their savings to come to Canada, leaving them in a vulnerable position upon arrival.

The article also mentions the experiences of refugee claimants, such as Abdulkarim Hassan, who faced difficulties finding shelter and employment after arriving in Canada. While their claims are pending, refugee claimants do have access to social assistance, but the shortage of affordable housing remains a significant challenge.

To address the housing shortage, the Immigrant Services Society of B.C. has launched the Refugee Housing Project, which pairs homeowners with refugee families for short-term housing solutions.