JIAS's Response to the Crisis in Afghanistan

In August 2021, the Taliban took over Afghanistan. The Canadian government committed to resettle at least 40,000 Afghan refugees. JIAS has responded by playing a leadership role in supporting national and international groups seeking assistance in getting hundreds of Afghan refugees to safety.

As a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH), JIAS is uniquely positioned within the Jewish community to privately sponsor refugees. During the Afghan refugee crisis, JIAS was approached by both grassroots and large organizations that required our help to bring Afghan nationals to Canada. JIAS provided options for different immigration pathways and worked with all stakeholders through the sponsorship and settlement processes.

In 2022, JIAS sponsored 230 Afghan refugees in partnership with constituent groups, foundations, and donors. JIAS is currently providing settlement support to over 350 Afghan refugees in the GTA and Saskatoon.