Over 120 Canadian organizations need refugee sponsorship volunteers for 2026
On This Page You Will Find:
- Complete directory of 120+ authorized sponsorship organizations across Canada
- Step-by-step process to join refugee sponsorship efforts as a volunteer
- Exclusive 2026 program timelines and application deadlines
- Insider tips on what SAHs really look for in volunteers
- How to bypass current restrictions and still sponsor refugees
Summary:
With traditional refugee sponsorship channels paused until December 2026, Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs) have become the only active pathway for Canadians wanting to help refugees resettle. Over 120 approved organizations across Canada are actively seeking volunteers and constituent groups to join their life-changing work. Whether you're an individual looking to co-sponsor or part of a group ready to take on full sponsorship responsibilities, these organizations provide training, support, and the legal framework to make refugee resettlement possible. The window for 2026 programs is opening soon, with some SAHs accepting applications as early as September 2025.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- SAHs are the only active channel for new refugee sponsorships through December 2026
- Over 120 authorized organizations across Canada need volunteers and constituent groups
- Minimum commitment requires 5+ people with time and resources in the same community
- Some 2026 programs open applications September 1, 2025 with October 31 deadline
- SAHs provide complete training and ongoing support for all volunteers
Maria Santos had always wanted to help refugees, but when she discovered that individual sponsorship applications were paused, she felt her dream slipping away. Then she learned about Sponsorship Agreement Holders – and everything changed. Within six months, Maria and her church group were welcoming a Syrian family to their Toronto community, providing not just housing and support, but genuine friendship that transformed everyone involved.
If you've ever wondered how ordinary Canadians can make an extraordinary difference in refugee lives, the answer lies with Canada's network of Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs). These organizations hold the keys to refugee resettlement – and they're actively seeking people like you to join their mission.
What Makes SAHs Your Gateway to Refugee Sponsorship
Sponsorship Agreement Holders aren't just bureaucratic organizations – they're your bridge to changing lives. These incorporated organizations have signed formal agreements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), giving them the legal authority to sponsor refugees for resettlement.
Think of SAHs as the master key holders. While individual sponsorship channels remain closed until December 31, 2026, SAHs continue operating at full capacity, sponsoring hundreds of refugees annually through the Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) program.
Here's what makes this opportunity so powerful: you don't need to navigate complex immigration law or handle government paperwork alone. The SAH provides the legal framework, expertise, and ongoing support while you focus on what matters most – welcoming new Canadians into your community.
Your Complete Roadmap to Finding the Right SAH
Step 1: Access the Official SAH Directory
Your journey begins with Canada's official SAH directory, featuring over 120 authorized organizations nationwide (excluding Quebec, which operates its own system). This isn't a hidden database – it's publicly available on the IRCC website, searchable by province, city, or organization name.
The directory reveals fascinating diversity: from faith-based organizations like the Mennonite Central Committee to multicultural associations like the Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria. Each SAH brings unique strengths, cultural connections, and community networks to refugee resettlement.
Step 2: Understand Your Participation Options
SAHs offer flexible ways to get involved, depending on your circumstances and commitment level:
Individual Co-Sponsorship: Perfect if you're working alone or with just a few friends. You'll join existing sponsorship efforts, contributing time, resources, and support while learning from experienced volunteers.
Constituent Group Formation: Ideal for established groups like churches, community organizations, or friend networks. As a Constituent Group (CG), you'll take on primary sponsorship responsibilities under the SAH's legal umbrella.
Direct Volunteering: Some SAHs welcome volunteers for specific tasks like airport pickups, translation services, or settlement support without full sponsorship commitment.
Step 3: Master the Contact Strategy
Here's where many well-intentioned people stumble – they contact SAHs without preparation. Successful applicants approach SAHs with clear intentions and realistic expectations.
When you contact a SAH, be ready to answer:
- How many people are in your potential sponsorship group?
- What's your geographic location and community connections?
- What resources (time, financial, housing support) can you commit?
- Do you have specific refugee populations you're hoping to help?
- What's your timeline for getting involved?
What SAHs Really Do (And How You Fit In)
The Settlement Support Reality
Forget any romanticized notions about refugee sponsorship – this work is beautifully practical and deeply personal. Sponsorship groups become the refugee family's first Canadian friends, helping with everything from opening bank accounts to understanding public transit systems.
Your Housing Mission: You'll help find appropriate, affordable housing – no small task in Canada's current market. This might mean use your network, researching neighborhoods, or even providing temporary accommodation.
Financial Navigation: Canadian banking, credit systems, and financial literacy become your teaching domains. You'll help newcomers understand everything from debit cards to building credit history.
Social Integration: Perhaps most importantly, you'll help refugees build the social connections that improve a new country into home. This means introductions to neighbors, invitations to community events, and patient cultural bridge-building.
The Volunteer Commitment Truth
SAHs require sponsorship groups of at least five people – and there's wisdom in this requirement. Refugee resettlement demands sustained effort over 12 months or more. Five people can share responsibilities, preventing burnout while ensuring consistent support.
Your SAH will assess whether your group has sufficient volunteers and resources to support their anticipated caseload. This isn't about excluding people – it's about ensuring refugee families receive the support they deserve.
Critical 2026 Timeline Information
Understanding Current Restrictions
The temporary pause on Groups of Five and Community Sponsor applications continues through December 31, 2026. This restriction actually makes SAHs more valuable – they're operating the only open channel for new private refugee sponsorships.
This exclusivity means SAHs are experiencing increased interest. Early contact and preparation become crucial for securing spots in 2026 programs.
Specific SAH Program Windows
Some SAHs have already announced their 2026 timelines:
Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria opens their Expression of Interest process on September 1, 2025, with a firm October 31, 2025 submission deadline. Miss this window, and you'll wait until their next cycle.
Mennonite Central Committee anticipates continuing sponsorship submissions throughout 2026, offering more flexible timing for interested groups.
These varying timelines highlight why early SAH research and contact are essential. Each organization operates differently, with unique application periods and requirements.
Your Strategic Next Steps
Phase 1: Research and Preparation (Now - August 2025)
Visit the official SAH directory and identify 3-5 organizations in your province or region. Don't limit yourself to obvious choices – smaller SAHs might offer more personalized support and faster processing.
Research each SAH's background, refugee populations they typically serve, and any specialized programs. Some focus on specific nationalities or family situations.
Phase 2: Initial Contact (August - September 2025)
Contact your selected SAHs with a brief introduction explaining your interest, group composition, and preliminary timeline. Ask about their volunteer requirements, training programs, and 2026 availability.
Request information about their support structure. The best SAHs provide comprehensive training covering everything from cultural sensitivity to immigration procedures.
Phase 3: Commitment and Training (Fall 2025)
Once you've identified the right SAH partnership, begin their formal training process. Most SAHs offer ongoing education and support throughout the sponsorship journey.
Use this time to strengthen your volunteer group, clarify individual roles, and begin practical preparations like researching housing options in your area.
Making Your Decision
The refugee sponsorship journey through SAHs offers something rare – the chance to directly improve lives while building meaningful community connections. Your involvement creates ripple effects extending far beyond the family you sponsor, strengthening Canada's humanitarian tradition and enriching your own community's cultural fabric.
The window for 2026 programs is opening soon. With over 120 SAHs across Canada seeking volunteers and constituent groups, your opportunity to make a profound difference awaits. The question isn't whether you can help – it's which SAH will become your partner in this life-changing work.
Start your research today. Visit the official SAH directory, identify organizations in your area, and take the first step toward welcoming new Canadians home.
FAQ
Q: What exactly are Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs) and why are they currently the only way to sponsor refugees in Canada?
Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs) are incorporated organizations that have signed formal agreements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), giving them legal authority to sponsor refugees for resettlement. Currently, traditional refugee sponsorship channels like Groups of Five and Community Sponsor applications are paused until December 31, 2026, making SAHs the exclusive pathway for private refugee sponsorship. Over 120 authorized SAHs operate across Canada (excluding Quebec, which has its own system), ranging from faith-based organizations like the Mennonite Central Committee to multicultural associations. These organizations provide the legal framework, immigration expertise, and ongoing support while volunteers focus on settlement activities. SAHs handle complex government paperwork, ensure compliance with immigration requirements, and offer comprehensive training to volunteers, making refugee sponsorship accessible to ordinary Canadians who want to make a difference.
Q: How can I find and contact SAHs in my area, and what should I prepare before reaching out?
Start by accessing the official SAH directory on the IRCC website, which lists all 120+ authorized organizations searchable by province, city, or name. Research 3-5 SAHs in your region, examining their backgrounds, refugee populations they typically serve, and specialized programs. Before contacting SAHs, prepare answers to key questions they'll ask: How many people are in your potential sponsorship group? What's your geographic location and community connections? What resources (time, financial, housing support) can you commit? Do you have specific refugee populations you want to help? What's your involvement timeline? Contact selected SAHs between August-September 2025 with a brief introduction explaining your interest, group composition, and preliminary timeline. Ask about their volunteer requirements, training programs, 2026 availability, and support structure. Early preparation and professional communication significantly improve your chances of securing a partnership.
Q: What are the different ways I can get involved with SAHs, and what's the minimum commitment required?
SAHs offer three main participation options depending on your circumstances and commitment level. Individual Co-Sponsorship is perfect if you're working alone or with few friends – you'll join existing sponsorship efforts, contributing time and resources while learning from experienced volunteers. Constituent Group Formation suits established groups like churches or community organizations, where you take on primary sponsorship responsibilities under the SAH's legal umbrella. Direct Volunteering allows participation in specific tasks like airport pickups or translation services without full sponsorship commitment. The minimum requirement for sponsorship groups is five people, as refugee resettlement demands sustained effort over 12+ months. This requirement prevents volunteer burnout while ensuring consistent support for refugee families. Your SAH will assess whether your group has sufficient volunteers and resources to support their anticipated caseload. The five-person minimum isn't about exclusion – it's about guaranteeing refugee families receive the comprehensive support they deserve throughout their settlement journey.
Q: What specific timeline should I follow for 2026 refugee sponsorship programs, and when do applications open?
The 2026 program timeline varies by SAH, making early research crucial. Some organizations like the Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria open their Expression of Interest process on September 1, 2025, with a firm October 31, 2025 submission deadline – missing this window means waiting until their next cycle. The Mennonite Central Committee anticipates accepting sponsorship submissions throughout 2026, offering more flexible timing. Follow this strategic timeline: Phase 1 (Now - August 2025) involves researching and identifying 3-5 suitable SAHs in your region. Phase 2 (August - September 2025) requires initial contact with selected SAHs to discuss volunteer requirements and 2026 availability. Phase 3 (Fall 2025) focuses on formal commitment and training with your chosen SAH partner. Since traditional sponsorship channels remain paused until December 31, 2026, SAHs are experiencing increased interest, making early contact and preparation essential for securing spots in 2026 programs.
Q: What does the actual volunteer work involve, and what kind of support will refugees need from sponsorship groups?
Refugee sponsorship involves beautifully practical, deeply personal work where you become the family's first Canadian friends. Housing assistance is crucial – you'll help find appropriate, affordable accommodation using your network, researching neighborhoods, or potentially providing temporary housing. Financial navigation includes teaching Canadian banking, credit systems, and financial literacy, from understanding debit cards to building credit history. Social integration might be most important – helping refugees build connections that transform a new country into home through neighbor introductions, community event invitations, and patient cultural bridge-building. You'll assist with opening bank accounts, understanding public transit, enrolling children in school, accessing healthcare, and countless daily tasks Canadians take for granted. The commitment typically extends 12+ months, requiring sustained effort from your sponsorship group. Your SAH provides comprehensive training covering cultural sensitivity, immigration procedures, and practical settlement support. This work creates ripple effects beyond the sponsored family, strengthening Canada's humanitarian tradition while enriching your community's cultural fabric.
Q: How do I evaluate which SAH is the best fit for my group, and what questions should I ask potential SAH partners?
Choosing the right SAH requires evaluating several key factors beyond geographic proximity. Ask about their refugee populations – some SAHs specialize in specific nationalities or family situations that might align with your group's interests or cultural connections. Inquire about their training programs and ongoing support structure – the best SAHs provide comprehensive education covering everything from cultural sensitivity to immigration procedures. Discuss their 2026 caseload capacity and typical timeline from application to refugee arrival. Ask about their constituent group requirements, including minimum volunteer numbers, financial expectations, and time commitments. Understand their communication style and support availability – will you have dedicated contacts for questions and emergencies? Request references from current or former constituent groups to learn about their actual experiences. Smaller SAHs might offer more personalized support and faster processing, while larger organizations may have more resources and established systems. Consider their track record, years of operation, and success stories. The right SAH partnership should feel collaborative, with clear expectations and robust support systems that make your sponsorship journey successful and meaningful.
Q: What are the financial responsibilities and costs involved in refugee sponsorship through SAHs?
Financial commitment varies significantly depending on the SAH, refugee family size, and your community's cost of living, but sponsorship groups typically need to demonstrate ability to support refugees for their first year in Canada. This includes covering basic living expenses like rent, food, clothing, household items, and transportation until refugees become self-sufficient through employment or government assistance eligibility. Many SAHs require constituent groups to raise $15,000-$30,000 per sponsored individual, though this varies by region and family composition. Some SAHs offer financial matching programs or have established funds that reduce individual group requirements. Beyond direct financial support, consider indirect costs like volunteer time off work, transportation for settlement activities, and potential emergency expenses. However, financial responsibility doesn't fall entirely on volunteers – many SAHs provide fundraising support, grant application assistance, and community partnership opportunities. Some organizations help connect constituent groups with local businesses, service clubs, or other community sponsors willing to contribute financially. Ask potential SAH partners about their specific financial requirements, fundraising support, and whether they offer payment plans or shared financial responsibility models that make sponsorship more accessible to diverse volunteer groups.
