Vancouver and Syrian Refugee

Richard Kurland: The high cost of living — especially housing — in Vancouver means integration could be difficult for refugees without family ties and support, said Kurland, who is advising groups that are considering private sponsorship. "Vancouver as a primary destination for refugees doesn't make sense," he said, according to CBC. Browse all CBC B.C. refugee stories Syrian refugee plan unveiled by Liberals today How to help Syrian refugees coming to B.C.2,700 Syrian refugees expected in B.C. by end of the year The high cost of living could make life in Vancouver difficult for refugees from Syria, said immigration lawyer Richard Kurland. "You may not have snow and ice but you sure have a high cost of living, and refugees destined for Vancouver without family here are going to have a hard time of it." Kurland said it can cost up to $50,000 for a private group to sponsor a family in Vancouver, whereas that money may stretch to two or three families elsewhere. On Tuesday, the federal government laid out its plans to bring in 25,000 Syrian refugees before a revised deadline of February 2016, including 10,000 by private sponsorship. He said he advised faith groups and others to send the money they raise to affiliates in other provinces, but most have told him they also want to offer the newcomers community and emotional support — which can't be sent by money order. B.C. has the capacity to take in up to 3,500 Syrian refugees across the province, said Bond, who praised the efforts of individuals, churches and communities offering to help. "It been really heartwarming ... we continue to be impressed and encouraged by the people who are reaching out and saying we want to be part of welcoming refugees to British Columbia." She said B.C. receives an average of 1,600 to 1,700 refugees every year, and will be ready. "As we speak, immigrant-serving organizations across the province are identifying housing options and looking at the supports that refugees will require," said Bond. Heartwarming' response in B.C. B.C. Public Safety Minister Shirley Bond called Ottawa decision to delay the resettlement of the promised 25,000 refugees by two months a "very prudent approach." The province is still waiting for specific numbers on how many refugees will come to B.C. — which is a federal decision, said Bond. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.