More time to settle Syrian refugees welcomed by Edmonton agencies

Edmonton settlement agencies are welcoming the federal government's announcement to extend the timeline for the arrival of 25,000 Syrian refugees.

"We're certainly relieved at this point to know that we will have fewer people comingand more time to prepare, keeping in mind that the same number will be arriving, but it will be spread over a longer period of time," said Jason GariepyofCatholic Social Services.

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The new plan brings only10,000 refugeesto Canada by Dec. 31, with the remaining 15,000arrivingby the end of February.

Alberta is expecting to settle up to 3,000 refugees.

Catholic Social Services is tasked with settling the government-sponsored refugees in Edmonton and Red Deer where finding affordable housing is the biggest challenge.

"That's kind of where everyone's chewing their nails a little bit," said Erick Ambtman, executive director of the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers.

"Things like housing that we know are going to be a challenge in a place like Edmonton, gives us a bit more time to find those who have places."

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Ambtman said health-care systems and school boards will also appreciate having more time to figure out how to organize the newcomers.

Both Gariepy and Ambtman are astonished by thegenerosity shown by Albertans,with people from all walks of life offeringhelp.

"We live in an amazing communityand the number of people that are stepping forward from all walks of life,"Ambtman said, thinking of one womanlivingin a trailer park in Whitecourtwhooffered her two spare bedrooms and to work with a family.

"It's nonstop," he said. "People from everywheresaying, 'What can we do to help?'"

Gariepy said he's still hopingto hear from more people inEdmonton and Red Deer about housing options, but agreedtheresponse so far is reassuring.

"It's really a chance for us to be even more prepared upon their arrival, and find even better housing options for the Syrian refugees when they arrive."

The following are the Prairiedestinations for Syrian refugees:Edmonton, Medicine Hat, Calgary, Red Deer,Lethbridge,Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albertand Moose Jaw.