Refugee Sponsorship

For more than two decades, the Diocese of Niagara has warmly welcomed refugees into our communities. Through our Private Sponsorship Agreement with the Government of Canada, we are able to undertake a limited number of sponsorships in any given year.

Any of our congregations, as well as affiliated ecumenical groups, may sponsor individuals or families abroad who are refugees. After fleeing persecution and often unimaginable circumstances, resettled refugees thrive in Canada with the generous and dedicated care and settlement support provided by their sponsors.

Sponsoring groups provide financial support and housing assistance during a refugee’s first year in Canada. Groups also offer community welcome, emotional support, help with language learning, and assistance navigating Canadian systems and services.

Refugee sponsorship serves both the refugees who find safety and a new home in Canada, and the parishes and ecumenical groups who participate in the ministry of welcome. Public support for refugees ensures that Canada continues to be a safe haven and that our tradition of protection, compassion, hospitality, and justice remains strong.