(The Canadian Press/Frank Gunn)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Ukrainians in P.A.

P.A.’s Ukrainian newcomers finding jobs easily with businesses eager to fill positions

Feb 14, 2023 | 4:00 PM

Prince Albert continues to be a destination for Ukrainian newcomers fleeing the war in their home country.

There are 43 families who moved to the city since last spring with four more expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Sonya Jahn, who’s been helping each newcomer settle into the community, told paNOW she thinks many are choosing P.A. due to the high number of job opportunities.

“They’re very eager to work; they have a strong, strong work ethic,” she said. “(Many) would love to work on the day they arrive but of course there’s a bit of a process before.”

According to SaskJobs, there were around 830 job postings in P.A. They vary from medical to manual labour to entry-level positions.

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There are also several major projects in the works for the area which are expected to bring in even more jobs. This includes the new OSB mill, the expansion of the Victoria Hospital, and the yard district.

Jahn said she’s since partnered with the Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce to highlight all the job opportunities. Patty Hughes, the CEO of the Chamber, noted the newcomers who do want to work aren’t looking for too long.

“Being able to find potential employees through the Ukrainian newcomers has been very welcomed by the business community,” she said.

This is also despite most of the Ukrainians not being able to speak English. However, Hughes explained employers are personally working to eliminate this barrier.

“We got some great organizations that are working to fast track their language skills,” she said.

Several local businesses have hired Ukrainian newcomers. They include MNP LLP, Mr. Mikes, Canadian Tire, and Market Tire to name a few.

The excitement to hire these newcomers appears to be a win-win situation. While these Ukrainians are able to find a job and provide for themselves and their families, many of these businesses are having a tough time filling positions.

The sector getting the most attention is health as the Saskatchewan Government started recruitment methods in different countries. However, multiple sectors are having trouble including agriculture and hospitality.

Meanwhile, donations are still be accepted to help these newcomers settle in the community.

While there’s no longer a need for any more clothes, personal hygiene items, toothpaste, towels, sheets, pillows, pots and pans, dishes, and cleaning supplies are all needed. Jahn explained they’re requiring them to be new or in very good condition.

Food donations are still needed such as sugar, flour, pasta, rice, and canned items.

Those wanting to make a financial donation can still do so by contacting Calvary United Church. In return, they will receive a tax receipt. So far, over $30,000 has been donated by people in Prince Albert.

All physical donations can be dropped off at MLA Alana Ross’s office Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow