Making it happen : Parishes respond to PWRDF refugee sponsorship initiative

Notes: As part of its 50th anniversary program, the Primate's World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) is working with parishes in its 50 Refugee Families Sponsorship Project. "Funding support from the initiative provides parishes with up to $5,000 plus a matching amount from Citizenship and Immigration Canada to help supported refugees for a year". Carolyn Vanderlip, 50th anniversary co-ordinator for PWRDF, worked as the diocese of Niagara's refugee co-ordinator for ten years. "Remember that refugees arrive having left everything behind. Often this includes other family members. Some 'go through culture shock', notes Vanderlip. A sponsor's role is 'to journey with them through those challenges,' she says, adding that it's 'an amazing experience' and 'a privilege' to 'go through the ups and downs together'."

Subjects: Vanderlip, Carolyn; Refugees - Canada; Refugees - Religious aspects - Anglican Church of Canada; Primate's World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF); Church work with refugees - Anglican Church of Canada