We are celebrating!
One year ago, Inasmuch stepped out in faith to open our third transition house for female Refugee Claimants. With seven bedrooms, we’ve hosted 21 women this year.
What started as a step of faith turned into so much support from you - our community! You locked arms with us to provide safe shelter and support these women - many who fled abusive situations and landed in Vancouver homeless shelters.
Opening this house doubled our capacity, which meant we needed extra help and resources. The response has been inspiring! Staff and volunteers prepared the house for its grand opening. Others did yard work throughout the summer. Local businesses stepped up, donating nourishing food all year long. Retirees drove residents to immigration check-ins in Vancouver and youth groups created welcome baskets. Senior ladies hosted fundraisers and prayed for residents.
To celebrate this anniversary we hosted a spa party for all the women who've lived here this year. We had fun with face masks, foot baths, and pedicures!
A huge thank you to Tracey at @sweetandsavoryboxesbyt for designing a beautiful cake. If you're looking for delicious desserts for your next event, check her out on Instagram!
Progress and Growth
It's truly inspiring to witness the transformation and growth of Refugee Claimants as they begin to take steps forward in their new life. After moving to her first rental suite from our transitional home, one woman said:
"Thank you to all the Inasmuch staff for the journey you have walked with me since I arrived in Abbotsford. You have been a blessing and I'm truly grateful. The move went well and I'm now settled in my beautiful home. My landlord is kind and supportive. May God bless you abundantly."
Of the 21 women hosted at the women's transition home, 9 are employed, 3 are in education/training programs and 5 still live there. We are committed to helping resource, refer and support each Refugee Claimant as they find their footing and pursue next steps.
We're grateful for local partners, Archway, Work BC, Care for Women, Safe Families, The Women's Centre @ Central Heights, Salvation Army, Fable, Hello Fresh and churches and businesses. Impacting these women's lives with kindness is made possible with your unwavering support.