How You Can Support Refugees in Your Community

Refugee resettlement is not the work of organisations alone—it is a community endeavour. When individuals, faith groups, businesses, and neighbours come together to welcome newcomers, the results are transformative. At OCRSS, we are constantly inspired by the generosity of British Columbians who want to make a difference. Whether you have an hour a month or are considering a deeper commitment, there are many meaningful ways you can support refugees and newcomers in your community.

Ways to Get Involved

Volunteering is one of the most direct ways to support our work. We welcome volunteers who can help with English conversation practice, homework tutoring for youth, driving families to appointments, or assisting with community events. No prior experience with refugees is required—only a welcoming spirit and a willingness to learn. We provide orientation and ongoing support to ensure that both volunteers and the families we serve have a positive experience.

You can support refugees in your community by:

• Volunteering your time for conversation practice, tutoring, or transportation
• Donating funds to support housing assistance, language programmes, and youth initiatives
• Donating household items, winter clothing, or furniture for newly arrived families
• Joining or forming a refugee sponsorship group to welcome a family to Canada
• Advocating for refugee-friendly policies and sharing accurate information in your networks

Every Contribution Matters

Financial donations help us bridge gaps when government funding falls short and allow us to respond quickly to emergent needs such as emergency housing or urgent translation services. In-kind donations of furniture, clothing, and household goods are also invaluable—they help families set up their first homes without the financial burden of purchasing everything new. If you are unsure how to begin, reach out to us. We would be honoured to have you as part of our community of supporters, and we will find a role that fits your skills, schedule, and interests. Together, we can ensure that every refugee family in British Columbia finds safety, dignity, and belonging.