Refugee claimants in need of housing in the Waterloo Region. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Services are voluntary and at no cost.
Open Homes is a home-share initiative that connects newly arrived refugee claimants with individuals or families in the local community who are willing to share their homes on a temporary basis, while long-term housing is secured. Through the program, both guests and hosts are supported by community groups and connected to local resources that assist with settlement, employment, and housing.
CJI adopted the Open Homes program in 2024. Open Homes existed previously as a grassroots movement, rooted in the Mennonite community, and has a rich history of volunteers housing and welcoming refugee claimants.
Interested in sharing your house with people recently arriving in our community as refugees? Contact us at the link below!
Are you a refugee in need of temporary housing? Contact us below to find out more.
CJI’s ongoing support includes mediation, conflict coaching and other supports. We work with you to create the best chance of a successful Open Homes connection!
Open Homes is about more than just housing, it’s about fostering meaningful connection, and creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved.Â
This program offers a powerful opportunity to be part of a community rooted in care, solidarity, and shared humanity. By volunteering, whether as a host or part of a support circle, you become part of a collective effort to welcome refugee claimants with dignity and warmth. You’ll form relationships that cross cultures, learn from different life experiences, and be reminded of the resilience and generosity that thrive when people come together.Â
This is a chance not only to give, but to grow and to help shape a community where everyone has a place to land and be seen.Â
Open up your home to an individual or refugee claimant family in need of temporary housing while they go through the process of applying for refugee status and seeking long-term housing and settlement in Canada.
As a Host, you create a space where dignity, stability, and human connection are not just offered — they’re shared and experienced together.Â
Become a support circle volunteer; have a car, a bike, or know all the convenient spots in town? Support newly arrived refugee claimants and their host families through offering local city orientation, and or rides to appointments, social connection and a sense of local hospitality and community.Â
CJI creatively, and innovatively applies restorative justice principles to challenging community problems.
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