Refugee Sponsorship Committee

Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church Refugee Sponsorship Program

In the summer of 2021, the world witnessed the tragedy that unfolded as the Taliban gained control of the Afghan government and citizens attempted to flee the country out of fear for their lives. The crisis in Afghanistan was the spark that triggered a question that led to the beginnings of the Kerrisdale Refugee Sponsorship program: could we accomplish something to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals whose lives are at risk? We soon realized that the needs were immense, and many options were available to us. Along with the support of the Vancouver Taiwanese Presbyterian Church, we chose the path that would bring an at-risk individual to the safety of Canada as quickly as possible. In the spring of 2023, our question was answered when we began the sponsorship of a married couple from Afghanistan through a cost-sharing program with the government called BVOR (Blended Office Visa-Referred). During the 12 months of sponsorship, as we helped the newcomers transition to a new life of freedom and opportunity, we realized that we had made a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals. At the same time, our community was greatly enriched by the shared experience of seeing our newcomers thrive in their new lives.

In late 2023, we were presented with another opportunity to help a family leave a difficult situation, and we responded with a commitment to bring them to a better life. The family has left Afghanistan and a future without hope, especially for the female family members who endured the severe restrictions and loss of personal freedoms imposed by the Taliban rule. They wait in a safe third country while we prepare our sponsorship application and a plan for their support. This sponsorship will not only help an at-risk family but also provide opportunities to girls who are being denied the basic human right to an education.

The UNHCR (United Nations High Commission for Refugees) estimates that approximately 120 million people will be forcibly displaced worldwide from their homes by the end of 2024. We have now realized the possibility of forever changing the lives of two individuals suffering in these circumstances. We hope to continue the work to make an immeasurable difference in the lives of others.

For further information, please contact us at: kpc.refugee@gmail.com.