Ukrainian refugees begin settling in to former resort in Sooke, B.C.
CTV
The first of what's estimated to be around 100 refugees from Ukraine have arrived at their new home at a former resort in Sooke, B.C.
Property owner Brian Holowaychuk says he hopes the former resort will help give the refugees a sense of community.
Seven-year-old Asha and six-year-old Rajib, who are from different families that recently arrived in Sooke, already seem bonded by a common experience.
"They [were] like brother and sister in the first couple hours," said Holowaychuk. "They're almost inseparable here."
Both families have had to leave loved ones behind.
Asha's mother, Anna Buchuieva, says her husband is still in Ukraine.
"We hope that it will end soon and we can be together," she said.
Those who have arrived say they find a sense of comfort in the community here, and for the opportunity for the children to "be kids" after escaping the devastation in their homeland.
The resort in East Sooke, B.C., is pictured. (CTV News)
