IFSSA is playing a leading role in the settlement of the 3000+ refugees coming into Edmonton over the coming year. IFSSA has already helped settle over 50 Syrian refugees into Edmonton over the last 6 months and is presently involved with the processing of 150+ applications. IFSSA is also supporting the settlement and integration of refugees brought in by the government and other organizations. IFSSA has been providing spiritually and culturally sensitive social services in Edmonton for over 20 years.
IFSSA is supporting resettlement efforts through…
· Community mobilization (within the Arabic speaking, and Muslim community) This will include organizing Arabic speaking doctors/dentist, facilitating affordable housing transfers, ESL volunteers, general volunteers, etc
· Supporting private sponsors (from the application process to settlement)
· Community Education Sessions
Educating community care providers on recognizing and dealing with PTSD and other mental health issues
· Providing access to a Syrian Refugee specific donation centre with furniture, clothing, house hold goods and other provisions
· Providing access to our halal food bank
· Providing access to short-term emergency financial relief
· Providing bridging between refugee families and host families for social/emotional support
· Other long-term integration support for refugees
