Lethbridge set to welcome 240 Syrian refugees by end of 2016

LETHBRIDGE – Lethbridge Family Services has released an updated count of Syrian refugees expected to arrive in the city.

It says 240 government-sponsored refugees are expected to arrive in Lethbridge by the end of 2016. One hundred and twenty-five of those are expected by Mar. 1.

The group also said an additional 35 to 50 privately-sponsored refugees are expected, with the first likely to arrive in January.

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READ MORE: How Alberta is preparing for up to 3,000 refugees

A steering committee of community partners including immigration services, education, health, social services, law enforcement and others has been set up to help transition refugees into the city.

At this point LFS said all indications suggest Lethbridge is receiving mainly refugees who have already found refuge in Jordan and have passed Canada’s five-stage screening process.

READ MORE: Canada opens door wide to refugees in Jordan

About 70 homes have already been volunteered to house those coming to the city. LFS points out that community and social housing reserved for low-income individuals will not be used to house refugees.

WATCH: Federal government stresses need for housing Syrian refugees

LFS and the steering committee are still looking for volunteers to help house refugees and donations for a resettlement fund. To help or for more information, click here.