Ukrainian Friends In West Grey And Area (Image from Ukrainian Friends In West Grey And Area Facebook page)
One of the Ukrainian families who was settled in the area after fleeing the Russian invasion of their country has left
The Ukrainian Friends in West Grey and Area says since last fall, they have been supporting two families who came to find a new life by living with host families and sending their children to local schools.
The group says on Feb. 23, they gathered with one of the families, who shared they will be returning to Poland.
“The mother of one of the families has a master degree – confirmed by Canadian standards – her English is improving, and she found local part-time employment. Yet, in these three months, she has had to accept that she had no real option but to return to Poland. The amount of time it would take for her to be able to earn a living wage to independently support herself and her children was not realistically achievable for her,” says the group in a release.
While not anticipated, the group says it understands her dilemma and the decision as a positive for her, but also recognizes they were successful in providing a safe place for these families.
“We have learned much: people fleeing from Ukraine have endured beyond our understanding. And, while we have a lot to offer in our area, we all feel the economic realities of life in Canada – especially with the escalating costs of housing, utilities, food and raising a family,” says the group. “We are grateful to have met this family, and we will continue to stay connected with them. We will also move forward with our vision – to continue to support people whoa re forced to leave their homes in Ukraine.”
The group adds they have learned there is a need for temporary or long-term housing in the area, and anyone who has any ideas is asked to contact the group at ukrainianfriendswestgrey@gmail.com.