FILE PHOTO - Fairfield by Marriott hotel

Image Credit: Fairfield by Marriott

Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Vernon and Salmon Arm are offering employment and accommodation to Ukrainian refugees.

Ashley Olsen, general manager of Fairfield by Marriott, said in a press release the hotels are committed to hiring up to 10 Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their homes due to the war in Ukraine. The hotels will also provide interim accommodations and support for the immediate needs of these refugees.

More than four million people have fled Ukraine since Russia invaded the country in February, causing the largest European refugee crisis since the Second World War.

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“We’re prepared to welcome Ukrainians with open arms,” Olsen said. “Marriott has a long history of working with organizations around the world in support of refugees, and our locations in the Interior will fully back these efforts.”

In support of those affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Government of Canada has created the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel to help Ukrainians and their family members come to Canada as quickly as possible and to provide them with the ability to work and study here.

Under the agreement, Ukrainians and their families coming to Canada can apply for a free visitor visa and will be allowed to stay in Canada for up to three years. They also have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to find work as quickly as possible.

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“The tourism industry in the region has faced a staffing shortage for many years and the peak summer season is just around the corner. With restrictions lifted, we’re already forecasting a record year of tourists travelling to the area,” Olsen said.

“We recognize there is significant pressure on the availability of housing for local residents, so we are offering housing within our hotels for these individuals.”

The hotels ask that any local residents with friends or family in Ukraine that are seeking to enter Canada under the CUAET program to contact Olsen via email for more information.

READ MORE: B.C. phone line set up to assist Ukrainians fleeing war

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