Across Canada, refugee claimants are facing growing levels of food insecurity—many unable to meet their most basic needs due to long delays in receiving work permits. These delays leave individuals and families without a legal means to earn income, forcing them to rely on overburdened social services and food banks. At a time when stable employment is one of the most effective tools for successful integration and self-sufficiency, current federal processing timelines are creating unnecessary hardship for those seeking safety and dignity in Canada.

This campaign calls on Minister Marc Miller and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to take immediate action to expedite work permit processing for refugee claimants. We are urging the government to shorten wait times, simplify the administrative process, and improve communication with claimants about their application status. By doing so, we can not only alleviate hunger and hardship but empower newcomers to contribute to their communities, support themselves with dignity, and reduce the strain on Canada’s social support systems. It’s time to make access to work a right, not a barrier.

‍

‍