OUR STORY
On Easter Sunday, 2010, the phone rang. A Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer said a young Guatemalan couple with a 15-month-old had fled their home, walked across the border into Abbotsford and claimed asylum. They had completed their initial processing but knew no one in Canada. They had no money left and nowhere to go. “Do you have any idea where we could send them?” the officer asked. “Bring them to our house” the couple replied. This couple became the founders of what is now called Inasmuch Community Society. Their generous act of compassion ignited the passion of others in our community.
Today, Inasmuch is a registered Canadian charity offering safe, transitional housing to women, men and children who have fled violence, and trauma. We’ve expanded to offer 20 rooms in Abbotsford and Chilliwack.
Inasmuch is the only provider of transitional housing across the Fraser Valley.
Our valued partner organizations, volunteers and donors make it possible for us to effectively serve many Claimants with a small staff and minimal administrative costs.
OUR CORE VALUES
We believe in offering physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual support to every Refugee Claimant we serve.
We believe in walking alongside Refugee Claimants as they navigate our legal system and adapt to Canadian culture.
When Refugee Claimants don't have a voice, we advocate on their behalf.
We believe educating Canadians about Refugee Claimants breaks down stereotypes and fosters community.
We believe it’s important to love people the way Jesus loves, regardless of religious and cultural backgrounds.
We believe in providing valuable resources as Refugee Claimants embark on the healing journey from trauma.
We believe in protecting vulnerable people who were wronged in their country and seek refuge in Canada.