FCJ Refugee Centre’s First Winter Fundraising Party
On December 6, 2024, the FCJ Refugee Centre is hosting its first Winter Fundraising Party, an event that will bring together our community of staff, volunteers, board members, long-time supporters, and neighbors. The event is not just about raising money; it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable future for refugees and newcomers in Canada. “All proceeds from this event will go towards the Loly and Francisco Rico Endowment Fund, which is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of our work, especially in uncertain times,” says Tsering Lhamo, Co-Executive Director of the FCJ Refugee Centre.
The endowment fund will serve as a financial resource to help sustain the Centre’s core programs, which support refugees, immigrants, and other vulnerable communities. “By growing this fund, we will be in a better position to respond to community needs, support our core programs, and manage financial fluctuations in our sector,” says Tsering.
The work of the FCJ Refugee Centre is diverse. Some of the Centre’s core programs include transitional housing, legal assistance for refugees navigating immigration challenges, anti-human trafficking programs, and capacity building for newcomers. Currently, FCJ Refugee Centre have four houses and are providing housing for around 30 to 35 individuals. “Our transitional housing program provides temporary shelter for newly arrived refugees, especially single women and single mothers,” says Tsering.
FCJ Refugee Centre has a protection and immigration program that helps clients with the legal challenges they face, including finding lawyers and filing claims when they are unable to afford legal fees. The Centre has constantly adapted to the evolving needs of the people it serves. As Tsering recalls, FCJ was one of the few organizations that remained open for the majority of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tsering Lhamo, FCJ Refugee Centre’s Co-Executive Director, at the centre’s office. Photo: FCJ Refugee Centre
FCJ Refugee Centre has been vocal in advocating for better shelter options for refugees, especially as the housing crisis in Canada has worsened in recent years. “The lack of shelter space for refugees has been a major challenge in the last two years, and we have responded to the needs of the time and advocated. We’ve seen some positive changes now, and we continue to push for more resources for the needs of newcomers,” says Tsering. But employment is still a major barrier for many of the newcomers.
In addition to financial donations, there are many ways for community members to contribute to FCJ Refugee Centre’s mission. Volunteers, helping with event organization, and monthly donors play a vital role in supporting the Centre’s work year-round.
Tsering believes that every newcomer has a unique strength and resilience that they bring to their new communities, not only through cultural diversity but also in terms of economic contributions to the workforce. “Canada is so diverse, which is something to be celebrated. Refugees also fill the important gaps in the workforce, and they play a role in building a strong and close-knit society.”
Purchase tickets for this event and support our core programs here.