From Cloud Kitchens to Digital Tools 2.0 – Upskilling Refugees

Migrants coming from Afghanistan consider India a transit country and a springboard to onward migration to safe third countries like Canada. FOCUS and the Ismaili National Councils for Canada and India have collaborated to assist beneficiaries to tap into Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP).

EMPP aims to identify skilled refugees who meet the requirements of Canada’s economic immigration programs and facilitates their resettlement to Canada.  To prepare beneficiaries, English Language upgrading and vocational training is provided through financial support from FOCUS.  Beneficiaries are receiving training as Personal Support Workers (PSW), Home Support Workers (HSW), Hair Dressing, and Sales Force Administration.

Focus Humanitarian Assistance (FOCUS) supports many innovative programmes in collaboration with the Ismaili National Council for India and other partners to prepare refugees for their onward journey.

While Refugees prepare themselves to leverage resettlement opportunities, complementary initiatives are offered in order to strengthen their resiliency.

In collaboration with the Rotary Club, vaccination drives are held every year for younger kids. 100% of kids are immunized. Largely, Beneficiaries can avail of free medical services in government hospitals.

• Partnerships have been established with 2 private hospitals for critical illness.
• Non-communicable diseases regular awareness sessions are conducted. Screenings are done at the centres for adults 30 + years, seniors and females in particular, suffering from chronic diseases. Critical cases are followed up.
• Mental Health Programmes – 50 volunteers have been trained as Front-Line Volunteers (FLV) to manage family mental health issues and awareness sessions on Mental health are regularly conducted for the Beneficiaries.
• A Helpline – telephone support is provided by the Ismaili National Council.

Every refugee crisis is unique and needs a tailored approach and intervention to deliver shelter, healthcare, employment and education. The refugee crisis in India is no exception. FOCUS continues to work to help the vulnerable reduce their dependence on humanitarian aid by supporting programmes that facilitate their transition to disaster-resilient communities, creating opportunities for a better quality of life.