Safe Haven Program

Holistic Support for Refugee Claimants, Asylum Seekers & Vulnerable Newcomers

Whether you're awaiting a refugee hearing, adjusting to life in Canada, or facing emotional trauma from displacement, Safe Haven is here to walk beside you every step of the way.

Program Introduction

At Muslim Food Bank and Community Services, we understand that newly arrived refugee claimants and asylum seekers often face overwhelming barriers from legal uncertainty and language challenges to urgent housing and mental health needs. Our Safe Haven Program is designed to provide wrap-around, culturally responsive support that empowers individuals and families to navigate these challenges with dignity and strength.

Program Objectives

Provide urgent assistance to stabilize clients in crisis situations
Support successful navigation of immigration and legal processes
Increase access to meaningful employment opportunities
Foster long-term integration into local communities and workplaces

Our Services

Urgent Response & Basic Needs

Immediate assistance during crises
Help accessing food, shelter, and healthcare
Support applying for BC Income Assistance and Legal Aid BC
Bus tickets for eligible clients to attend appointments and services

Settlement & Immigration Support

Guidance through the refugee claim and appeals process
Help with work permit applications and renewals
Individualized case management and referrals
Orientation to life in Canada, your rights, and available resources

Language Support & Community Integration

In-person and online English Conversation Circles (beginner & intermediate)
Community outings and cultural connection events
Access to a computer lending library for virtual services
Child-minding support during select services (for eligible clients)

Housing Support

Assistance with searching for safe and affordable housing
Information on tenants’ rights and responsibilities in BC

Employment & Labor Market Services

One-on-one employment counselling and job search coaching
Support connecting to WorkBC and short-term job training
Resume and interview preparation
Job fairs and networking opportunities
Education on workplace rights and safety

Mental Health & Trauma-Informed Counselling

Short-term, culturally sensitive clinical counselling
Referrals to community-based mental health support groups
Trauma support for refugee claimants, refugees, and CUAET visa holders

Who We Serve

Refugee claimants and asylum seekers

Refugees (resettled or privately sponsored)

Newcomers under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)

Other vulnerable newcomers facing multiple settlement barriers

Why Safe Haven?

At Muslim Food Bank and Community Services, we believe every person deserves a safe, supportive space to begin rebuilding their life. Through Safe Haven, we offer more than services, we offer hope, connection, and dignity during your most critical time of need.

Need Help or Want to Refer Someone?

Reach out today. Our multilingual team is ready to support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies as a refugee claimant?

A refugee claimant is someone who has applied for protection in Canada and is awaiting a decision. They are eligible for our full wraparound support services.

Do you help undocumented or rejected claimants?

Yes, we assess on a case-by-case basis and offer food, referrals, and crisis counselling where appropriate.

Are services available in languages other than English?

Yes. We provide support in Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Bengali, Pashto, Rohingya, Turkish and Kurdish.

British Columbia (BC)

Alberta (AB)

Ontario (ON)

Manitoba (MB)

Saskatchewan (SK)