Councillors get update on Syrian newcomers

An advisory committee on Syrian newcomers has identified 10 key issues faced by refugees who resettled in Hamilton.

A report presented to councillors at Monday’s emergency and community services committee meeting identified language and skills development as one area where challenges exist.

To start, there aren’t enough Arabic translators to meet the demand, so community service providers and volunteers from the local Arab community offer informal and formal support to help fill the gap, the report said.

There is also a need for more class in Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada, according to community service agencies. In addition, some newcomers have trouble getting to and from these classes and finding child care while they attend.

As for housing, all governmentassisted Syrian refugees who came to Hamilton have found a place to live, but there is concern that once the allowance from the federal government ends, some of these families could lose their current spots. For most, the housing allowance will end between December and April, according to the report.

Roughly 1,200 Syrian refugees had settled in Hamilton, more than half of them children, as of June. Some of the other issues identified include helping refugees reunite with their families overseas, prepare to enter the workforce, and transition into Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program if they can’t find employment.

The Mayor’s Advisory Committee on Syrian Newcomers, which was established in April, is made up of 18 members, ranging from key settlement agency representatives, community stakeholders and city staff.