support refugee claimants in navigating Canada’s refugee determination process
provide first language settlement and housing services for refugee claimants in BC
support refugees, refugee claimants and recent immigrants living with HIV
provide services based on mutual respect, diversity and inclusion

SOS provides drop-in as well as appointment-based services in Spanish, Farsi, Dari, Arabic, Swahili, French and English.

All refugee claimants who need assistance with the claim process or with settlement issues
You must have at least one original identity documents (I.D.) from your country of origin. For example: Passport or travel document, birth certificate, marriage certificate, school records, national I.D. cards, voter registration card.

Activities

Settlement Services include:

orientation and guidance through the refugee claim process
assistance with filling out government forms such as refugee claim, work permit, BC Medical Services Plan, Income Assistance, permanent residence applications
support in applying for Legal Aid for the refugee claim process
assistance in accessing and navigating the Canadian health care system
cultural orientation and adjustment counselling
general settlement services such as support in finding housing, employment, enrolling in English classes, school enrollment
connecting refugee claimants with local communities
referrals to other community services as needed such as mental health services, housing providers, employment counseling services

Housing Services include:

general information on the Greater Vancouver rental market
customized housing assistance, based on the client’s preferences, budget, and special needs
assistance with connecting to landlords and building managers to facilitate renting opportunities
information on low-cost furniture stores and donation centres

Heath Supports include:

support for refugees and newcomers living with HIV
health promotion services including the creation of a wellness plan and information on healthy living