A Fredericton organization is facing new challenges as an increasing number of Syrian refugees arrive in the city.
The Multi-Cultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF) has already helped provide clothes for the newly arrived Canadians to wear while temporary housing was set up.
READ MORE: First Syrian refugees to call New Brunswick home arrive in Fredericton
With more families arriving now, the group says its priorities are shifting.
“We’re moving as quickly as we can to help families get in their permanent accommodations,” said Lisa Bamford, the association’s executive director.
Once refugees land in the city they are brought to one of the temporary housing options before eventually moving into the place they’ll call home. As numbers quickly increase, however, speeding up the temporary-to-permanent housing shift has become the MCAF’s top priority.
READ MORE: Syrian refugees settling in Fredericton to get free transit service for year
Four Syrian families arrived in Fredericton this week, with more expected in the next few days. To keep up with the growing demand, a donation drive is underway to bring in household items.
Bamford says families getting set up in their own homes as quickly as possible is a huge step towards beginning their new lives in Canada.
“As soon as people are in their permanent accommodations, children can enrol and start school, and it makes people more available to participate in overall activities in the community.”
The drop-off location at 300 Urquhart Cres. will be open again on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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