Lethbridge business helping refugees

CANADIAN TIRE PROVIDING HOSPITALITY KITS TO NEWCOMERS

A local business has started an initiative aimed at being welcoming and caring for refugees coming to Lethbridge.

On July 1, Canadian Tire in Lethbridge launched a new initiative providing every immigrant and refugee coming to the city with a Canadian Hospitality Package.

Each package is designed to help ease the needs associated with week one of residency — including hygiene products, toys, educational and practical items. Many of the items will be seasonal-dependent. Everything is being supplied by Canadian Tire, with help from Lethbridge Family Services.

Jessica Maneschyn, with Canadian Tire North Lethbridge, said the idea came about after the store owner witnessed refugees debarking a plane in Lethbridge carrying their meager belongings in garbage bags.

“She thought it would be a wonderful opportunity for us to step up and give some frontline support for when they first come into the city,” Maneschyn said.

She contacted LFS Immigrant Services, and, after several meetings, the initiative grew from there..

“We have only been in conversation for about the past three months,” she said, noting it can take time for the company to initiate these types of efforts as single store.

“Canadian Tire is just such a quintessential company in Canada,” Maneschyn said. “We really try to embody the Canadian spirit. I think it’s really important for us to be a company that steps up and helps out with that.

“Everyone talks about Canadian hospitality, and being welcoming, and our inclusive communities,” she added. “I think our company perfectly fits into that role, in stepping up and being there for these people.”