Did you know there are more than 30,000 Ukrainian Newcomers living in Alberta?

According to the latest CUAET stats, there are over 200,000 newly arrived Ukrainians in Canada with an estimated 30,000 in Alberta. While there is limited support from the Government, all Ukrainians arrive with a Canadian Work Visa and do not receive refugee support, nor do they have refugee status. That is why places like the Free Store are so important during the settlement process. Imagine starting over and having to replace EVERYTHING in your home?!? 

Thanks to the community's support, our little Free Store has helped over 12,000 visitors over the past year and our plan is to stay open as long as needed. Over 90% of the Free Store volunteers are newcomers themselves, and many do not know the English language yet. While they are learning English, it can be difficult to gain employment, so that is why we launched our website, offering food and services provided by our newcomers that have been volunteering at the Free Store.

We are very excited about this new venture and we hope you are too. Because when you place an order you are helping a newcomer get back on their feet. Plus, the food and the services are pretty amazing!