The town of Kapuskasing has begun to look at ways it can help the Ukrainian Refugee crisis. Mayor Dave Plourde says the town has asked the Evacuation Committee and the North East Settlement Services for information on whether refugees can be hosted on even a temporary basis.
“From there I think the evacuation committee could come up with something that would assist us in following up with. I think Northern Ontario is open and very caring and I don’t think there is a community that wouldn’t open their doors or arms to anyone who needs help.”
There has been concerned regarding the lack of hotel space and housing especially apartments for those who come into the community. Plourde says that’s an issue not just in Kapuskasing but across the north.
“Whatever the requirement is whether for 20, 30, 10, or five families, children or mothers or anyone we can assist,” he said. “We can find some spots for them. I don’t really see that is an issue. Ultimately what we are looking at is something like a short term evacuation.”
More discussion and even a decision could come as early as next month when town council holds its next meeting.
