Timmins is well on its way to raising enough money to sponsor a Syrian refugee family. Around $10,000 has been donated from the community so far. The goal is $30,000, and the city is matching donations up to $15,000.
The Multicultural Centre’s Tom Baby says they are also working with an organization that has an agreement with the federal government to sponsor refugees. That makes the sponsorship time frame much shorter than any other process. The city is also looking into a program with the feds to help cover some of the costs of sponsorship for up to 6 months.
Baby says the community feedback for the program has been overwhelming. He says businesses and individuals are donating cash, time, and expertise to help bring a family to Timmins.
The city is still looking for volunteers to help with the transition phase for the sponsored family. To donate, go to City Hall or online on the city’s website. Receipts will be issued. The deadline for the city to match donations is December 31st.