Regina International Airport saw the fifth flight of Ukrainian refugees arrive on March 27. The passengers will have temporary shelter and support services set up for them in communities across the province. A government release states that the province will be hosting events for the public and all newcomers where they receive hands-on support for a host of programs and services. The passengers from today's flight are invited and encouraged to participate. 

"Nearly 4,000 Ukrainians have chosen to call Saskatchewan home and we will welcome as many more as wish to come," Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "Our government will always support Ukraine's right to defend its sovereignty against unjust foreign aggression."

Humboldt is one of the communities supporting the resettlement of refugees through the efforts of agencies like the Humboldt Newcomers Centre. CTV news reports that 15 families have been supporting in the area. 

I go into the banks with newcomers, schools and any kind of doctor appointments,” Yuliya Cadrain, Humboldt Regional Newcomer Centre, told CTV News.

Smaller communities have cheaper rents and a network of helpers that are easy to access, she maintains. Social media is often a source for needed items and specialized help.

“Posts looking for furniture or tables get an answer and comments right away. Beds or kitchen table, and you get a response. I have this, I can deliver. It’s amazing,” she said.

The March 27 flight concludes the work agreed upon in the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed last August between Premier Scott Moe and representatives from Solidaire and Open Arms, the government release noted. The MOU outlined an agreement between the three parties that five flights bringing displaced Ukrainians to Saskatchewan would be completed by end of March 2023.

(with files from Carla Shynkaruk, CTV News)