What we are asking: You to demonstrate your support of Abraham staying in Canada.

We are asking for your signature on two resolutions, details below.

Why it’s important: Abraham has been in Canada since October 2021. He was new to the city, new to Canada – new to everything. He had infinite questions about every holiday, street sign, and historical figure. In that first year, he navigated new friendships, governments, laws, and a few unique Canadian experiences: meeting orca whales off the coast of Mayne Island, building a snowman, and embracing all the local food – from poutine to spot prawns to Nanaimo bars. When he decided to make Canada home, he brought both of his cats all the way from Australia, moved to a neighbourhood he loved (Suter Brook), and filled his apartment with plants. On only Abe’s second night in Metro Vancouver in 2021, he found himself in the Downtown Eastside without any knowledge of the history of the area. This inspired an idea – how could he use his IT expertise to help those struggling with addiction? He registered a nonprofit to supply refurbished computers, training, and general computer technical support to people in need – including those starting over on the other side of rehab.

He learned, experienced, acclimated, and set down roots – all while excelling in his career and giving back to his community.

Even though Abe was sponsored by the Province of British Columbia to come to Canada and fill a necessary position, he now finds himself with his Work Permit extension having been denied. His company has placed him on a firm 90-day leave of absence – the current processing time to have his Permit reinstated is 101 days. February 19th is day 60

We need your support to show how much Abe means to this community and province.

Our Requests:

1. To Group Health Family of Companies (GHFOC) to extend Abraham’s extended leave of absence until a decision is made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

1. To implore Bonita Zarrilo (Member of Parliament: Port Moody – Coquitlam) to prompt IRCC to act on Abraham’s work permit application, should it exceed normal wait times.