Refugee Sponsorship and Resettlement

Grounded in our commitment to peacebuilding, MCC assists refugees who have suffered persecution, violence and human rights abuses to resettle in Canada.

We can’t do it without you!

MCC is ever grateful for the partnership and support of Mennonites and Brethren in Christ churches in Canada who link their arms with us to help welcome refugees.

“For the Lord your God...loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing. You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” Deuteronomy 10:18-19

Who are refugees?

Men, women and children fleeing war, persecution and political upheaval.  They are uprooted with little warning and endure great hardships during flight.  They become refugees when they cross borders and seek safety in another country.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that there are 15.2 million refugees in the world today.  The UNHCR has identified three durable solutions for refugees:  voluntary repatriation, local integration andresettlement in a third country.

What are the options for resettlement?

In most cases, refugees return home when peace and stability is restored. However, when the condition remains unstable or there is danger of persecution upon return, some of the refugees are able to stay in the country of asylum. Unfortunately, only a few countries are able to accept refugees permanently. Hence, resettlement in a third country such as Canada is the last option, and is available to a small fraction of refugees.

Why sponsor refugees?

It is a calling to respond to the plight of refugees who have suffered persecution, violence and human rights abuses; and with no other durable solution. Sponsorship is a one year commitment and the sponsor provides the family with housing, financial, settlement and emotional/moral support. While the legal sponsorship is for a year, the relationships that are formed are, in most cases, transforming and everlasting. Throughout the stages of the sponsorship process, MCC provides the sponsors with training opportunities and support.

We want to sponsor a refugee family. What is the process?

For further information on how your church or community can be involved in the sponsorship program, please contact Moses Moini or Sheryl Bruggeling at 905-646-3161.