Supporting Ukrainians in Need

The Cause

Ukrainian Canadian Social Services (UCSS) lies at the heart of Edmonton's community history, tracing its roots to October 14, 1977. As a non-profit charitable organization, UCSS plays a pivotal role in addressing the evolving needs of the Ukrainian community. With a dedicated team comprising 22 volunteers and two paid staff members, UCSS operates thanks to the generosity of benefactors and the unwavering commitment of volunteers.

UCSS has a distinct purpose of supporting Ukrainian newcomers affected by the ongoing war and meeting their diverse needs, which include helping them find accommodations and employment, as well as providing information about health insurance, English classes, immigration and community aid resources.

The key objectives of Ukrainian Canadian Social Services (UCSS) encompass the following:

- Providing assistance in all matters related to immigration and refugees, including crucial translation services to facilitate newcomers' integration and support for those affected by the ongoing war.

- Conducting research to better understand the challenges and requirements of the Ukrainian Community in the context of Canadian society.

- Coordinating both financial and moral support to those in need, with a particular focus on Ukrainians.

- Facilitating communication and collaborative efforts between social service organizations and agencies within the Ukrainian Community and city-wide, provincial, and federal entities operating in the Edmonton area.

- Monitoring the evolution of social legislation and social security in Canada, especially in Alberta and Edmonton, and disseminating relevant information to the Ukrainian Community.

UCSS is dedicated to fulfilling these objectives with utmost clarity and purpose, ensuring that the Ukrainian community and newcomers receive the support and assistance they need to thrive in their new environment.

Who Will it Benefit?

The initiative will primarily benefit Ukrainian newcomers and their families who fled the war and are settling in the city of Edmonton. These individuals, estimated to be around 750+ in number, will directly benefit from the resources provided by UCSS, thanks to the funding from Field Law.

Ukrainian newcomers in Edmonton often face significant challenges, including language barriers, cultural adjustment issues, economic disparities, limited access to services, and difficulties integrating into the community. UCSS's initiative directly benefits these newcomers by:

Language Support: Offering translation services to help newcomers communicate effectively, access services, and find employment.

Cultural Orientation: Providing guidance on adapting to a new culture, fostering a sense of belonging.

Employment Assistance: Offering job placement services and skill-building workshops to improve economic stability.

Access to Services: Bridging the gap to essential services like healthcare, education, and social support.

Community Integration: Facilitating social connections, support networks, and community engagement opportunities.

By addressing these challenges, UCSS empowers newcomers to thrive in Edmonton, enriching the community by welcoming diverse talents and experiences and enhancing the well-being of these individuals and their families.