The two hotels have committed to hiring up to 10 Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their homes.
Not only will the Fairfield by Marriott hotels in Vernon and Salmon Arm house Ukrainian refugees, but they will also hire them.
Ashley Olsen, hotel general manager, said they are committed to hiring up to 10 Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their homes.
The hotels are also committing to provide interim accommodations and support for the immediate needs of the refugees.
“We’re prepared to welcome Ukrainians with open arms,” said Olsen. “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 federal government has created the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) 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 while in Canada.
Under the CUAET, Ukrainians and their family members coming to Canada from overseas can apply for a free visitor visa and may be allowed to stay in Canada for three years, as opposed to the standard six-month authorized stay for regular visitors.
Refugees also have the option to apply for an open work permit with their visa application, enabling them to find work as quickly as possible
“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,” added Olsen. “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.”
Local residents with friends or family in Ukraine that are seeking to enter Canada under the CUAET program, are asked to contact Olsen at Ashley.Olsen@marriott.com for more information.
Source/ richmond-news
