xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) territories/Vancouver, B.C
VANCOUVER, April 24, 2023 – Pacific Immigrant Resources Society (PIRS) is pleased to announce the receipt of a $15,000 grant from the United Way British Columbia United for Ukraine Fund. United Way BC is a charitable organization helping British Columbians tackle critical social issues, through local love. The grant will help to address the unmet English learning needs and provide support to displaced Ukrainian children and youth who have fled the war in Ukraine.
With over 11,000 Ukrainians having already resettled in British Columbia, there is a pressing need to provide the support they require to settle and thrive in their new home. The majority of those who have arrived are women and children. While their needs vary, we are seeing a huge need for English language training, employment resources, and psychosocial support. In addition, parents need support to help their children adapt to Canada.
“We are grateful to United Way British Columbia’s United for Ukraine Fund for this support, which will enable us to provide young Ukrainian women and children with trauma-informed community-based English classes, culturally sensitive outreach, and psychosocial support in Ukrainian language, as well as family programs for children.”, says PIRS Executive Director, Mariam Bouchoutrouch. The programs will focus on helping the children and youth settle in British Columbia successfully by building skills for continued education, pre-employment, and social success.
As part of a broader collective effort to support this population, PIRS is committed to supporting displaced Ukrainians in the Lower Mainland. With United Way BC’s support PIRS will expand its capacity to meet the needs of this community.
About PIRS
Established in 1975, Pacific Immigrant Resources Society (PIRS) delivers accessible, inclusive, low-barrier and trauma-informed programs and services for immigrant and refugee women and their children that give them the skills and knowledge to navigate life in Canada, foster social connections and create a sense of belonging, meaningful participation and leadership.
About United Way BC
United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland, and Central & Northern Vancouver Island. United Way supports healthy, caring, and inclusive communities by strengthening vital connections that support people in need. Representing the six regions of Central and Northern Vancouver Island, East Kootenay, Lower Mainland, Southern Interior, Thompson Nicola Cariboo, and Trail and District, the organization serves a population of more than 4 million people, with a focus on kids and youth, seniors, poverty, mental health, and food security.
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Media Contact:
Anastasia Gaisenok
Director of Programs
Tel: (604) 298-5888 ext 803
