App users, tap here to watch video report.
ALBANY – New York State is getting ready to accept Ukrainian refugees fleeing their war-torn homeland.
On Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul reaffirmed the State’s support for Ukraine refugees, announcing the ‘Uniting for Ukraine’ program, furthering President Joe Biden’s pledge to admit up to 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion.
To participate, Ukrainians must have a sponsor, along with meeting vaccination and other public health requirements. They’d also have to pass various screenings and security measures.
A website for those interested in taking part in the program, NY.gov/ukraine, was launched this week.
“There’ll be a new program to roll out, expediting humanitarian parolee status, which will allow the families of Ukrainians to apply, to have them come and sponsor them to come to the State of New York,” Hochul explained.
Once those seeking refuge are cleared, they’d be able to move to a number of cities statewide, from Buffalo to New York. In addition, the City of Jamestown could be a contender for this push.
Last December, local lawmakers joined community advocacy groups to discuss resettling Afghan refugees in the greater Jamestown area.
With the refugee crisis in Ukraine growing, support for the idea is as well with Congressman Tom Reed now getting behind the idea as well.
The reason Jamestown would be a good place to resettle, officials say, is because of low cost of housing, job availability, easy access to healthcare services and support from local school programs.
Leave a Reply