Are you a local working under a temporary foreign closed work permit?
If so, a new Squamish Welcome Centre initiative may be for you.
The centre has launched a Direct Outreach and Support — Migrant Workers program in Squamish, as part of its Migrant Women-Opportunities for Work (MiWOW) initiatives.
This is a 14-month project that runs through March 31, 2024.
According to a news release, the program aims "to improve the lives of temporary foreign workers in Squamish by enabling them to have greater access to rights, helpful information, and positive experiences in the community."
Program activities include recreational events — such as hiking — information sessions about workers’ rights, and direct support in the form of one-on-one appointments.
To be eligible, participants in the program must be either working or living in Squamish and have an employer-specific work permit.
The release notes that these workers brought in to work for one employer are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
"Unfortunately, Squamish workers are not exempt from exploitation or unfair treatment, which makes this project an important resource for new migrants with closed work permits in the community," the release states.
The program is co-ordinated by MOSAIC, which offers settlement and employment services for newcomers, and it receives funding from Employment and Social Development Canada.
The project team consists of Caro Arcila and Tanager (who goes by one name). Arcila is the go-to person for all things migrant-worker related, according to the release.
She is available for one-on-one appointments, and can be found at the Squamish Welcome Centre (38027 Cleveland Ave.) on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
