(Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Ukrainian Newcomers

Plans in place to attract more Ukrainian refugees to P.A.

Oct 24, 2022 | 5:00 PM

The people overseeing the Ukrainian newcomers in Prince Albert hope to attract more refugees to the city.

Around 230 people fleeing Ukraine are flying into Regina on Tuesday and will take part in a career fair on Nov. 1 where they’ll decide where in the province they want to live.

Sonya Jahn will attend to highlight the jobs that are available in P.A. To make this easy for the newcomers, they set up a Facebook group to highlight specific jobs.

“We’re hoping to get as many employment opportunities showcased on that site,” Jahn said.

Any business or group hiring in P.A. is encouraged to join the ‘Prince Albert SK welcomes Ukrainians’ group on Facebook and share what jobs are available. According to SaskJobs, there are nearly 600 unfilled positions.

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Jahn hopes to highlight potential places these newcomers can live on Facebook. Just like those hiring, anyone who may have a house, apartment, or room to rent is asked to join and share any relevant information with the group.

“It will require some modification in rent perhaps for the first few months until they are fully employed,” Jahn noted.

As more Ukrainians call the city home, the hope is to make their transition to a new life as easy as possible.

Anyone who may have extra furniture, such as beds, tables, and couches, can donate them to Sophie’s Closet.

Jahn explained they’re also looking to collect towels, bedding, and personal hygiene items. Those can be dropped off at MP Randy Hoback’s office, 79 11th St. W., Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. People are asked to call 306-953-8622 in advance.

Cash donations are also being accepted at Calvary United Church which will provide a taxable receipt.

The one big thing that’s needed is volunteers. Jahn said they need help organizing all the items at Sophie’s Closet, picking up donations, and even helping some of the newcomers get around town.

“We need drivers for some of our newcomers who may not have transportation yet,” she said.

Right now, over 100 Ukrainian refugees call P.A. home. Jahn doesn’t have an exact number but did note this includes 30 families.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow