Looking Back with Gratitude, Moving Forward with Hope

As we step into a new year, we would love to reflect on the incredible impact made possible through you, our Inasmuch community. This past year was one of growth, resilience, and moving forward for refugee claimants we serve across the Lower Mainland. Together, we supported individuals and families by meeting practical immediate needs, and with resources on which to build their foundation for long-term stability and belonging in Canada.

Looking Back: Our Impact This Past Year

This year we supported individuals and families as they have navigated some of the most significant transitions of their lives:

• 44 refugee claimants received safe housing and wraparound supports (up to 3-4 months), providing stability, dignity, and a critical springboard as they began rebuilding their lives in Canada.

• 51 community clients outside our transition housing were supported with housing searches, navigating complex systems, accessing resources, and finding a sense of belonging in their communities.

• Our services reached refugee claimants across the Lower Mainland, including Langley, Chilliwack, Mission, and Abbotsford, ensuring support was accessible where it was most needed.

• We opened a dedicated men’s house, offering safe housing and community to men arriving in Canada alone. The result is amazing. Currently, men from 5 countries, and 5 different native languages are all living together in harmony, sharing meals and conversations.

• This year alone, individuals from 18 different countries were served, each bringing unique cultures, strengths, and stories as they started their new lives in Canada.

• 111 individuals successfully transitioned from transitional housing into their first permanent Canadian home, with 18 households fully furnished to ensure stability from day one.

• In partnership with The Gathering Church, we launched a weekly client-choice food pantry in August. This dignity-centered model allows families to choose foods that meet their needs and supplements monthly food hampers with fresh produce and essentials, reducing food insecurity for 124 individuals weekly.

• Through our new work grant program, 5 current and former residents gained their very first Canadian work experience, completing up to 240 hours of paid employment that strengthened resumes, built confidence, and opened pathways toward long-term independence.