(Libby Giesbrecht/650 CKOM)

By Jaryn Vecchio

In Need of Support

Over 80 Ukrainian newcomer families now call P.A. home, more still expected in coming months

Jul 24, 2023 | 12:53 PM

Prince Albert continues to be a top destination for Ukrainian newcomers.

Currently, 84 families call the city home. At the end of 2022, there were just over 30 families in P.A. with that total nearly tripling in the roughly first seven months of the year.

Sonya Jahn, who’s been looking after all of P.A.’s newcomers, told paNOW she was expecting a lot more to come, but even she’s surprised by how fast the numbers are growing.

“Some of the families who have arrived, some of their family members are now wanting to come as well,” she said.

Over the past couple of months, Jahn has started receiving calls from those living in Ukraine and other European countries who want to come to P.A. Many of the newcomers who currently live here were enticed, especially with job opportunities, when they first arrived in Saskatchewan.

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Jahn explained this continues to be the main reason why so many want to come to the city.

“We have so many employment opportunities available here in Prince Albert and the families can find meaningful work that they can raise their family on,” she said.

Jahn also mentioned that many want to become part of the local Ukrainian community which has become very tight knit. Because of this, she believes it’s possible there will be over 100 families in just a couple of months.

“The war isn’t ending anytime soon, sadly,” Jahn added. “Until the war ends, there will be families continuing to arrive.”

Meanwhile, many of the families who recently arrived are in desperate need of housing.

Jahn noted it’s becoming harder which each family to find a home or apartment that can accommodate their needs.

“We recently had a family of 11 arrive and I’m in great need of a place for this family to live,” she said.

She’s putting out a call to anyone in the city or just outside who has anyone places to rent to reach out to her at 306-930-9721.

Besides housing, there is also a need for beds, towels, and sheets. They can either be slightly used or brand new. They can be dropped off at MLA Alana Ross’ office on 15 Street East.

Financial donations can be made to the Calvary United Church who will provide a tax receipt in return.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow