Jim Estill, CEO of Danby, confirmed plans are underway to sponsor and support 50 Afghan refugee families. 

Afghan refugee have suffered more than 40 years of conflict, natural disasters, chronic poverty, food insecurity, the COVID-19 pandemic, and now the Taliban takeover. 

Following the recent withdrawal of American troops in Afghanistan, the Taliban assumed control of the country, leaving thousands of people desperate to flee the violence and persecution. 

“It’s a huge human crisis of unbelievable proportions,” said Estill.  

Partnering with local volunteers, organizations and the federal government, Jim Estill believes the cost of relocating these families to Guelph, Ontario will be approximately $1.5 million. He is said to split the cost with an organization that represents the Hazaras, a long-persecuted ethnic and religious minority in Afghanistan, who are even more at risk.  

While COVID-19 presents unchartered territory, 5 years ago, Jim helped 50 Syrian refugee families settle down in Guelph, 28 of whom were employed full time at Danby Appliances. Jim intends to use the same sponsorship program that allows local organizations and individuals to support these families, both financially and otherwise, for the first year as they settle.  

The federal government is still assessing the situation and how refugee families will be allocated and assisted. For more information on how Danby is supporting Afghan families click here. A Gofundme page has been created for those wanting to donate.

Although the process may be long and the journey complicated, it’s Jim’s way to ‘Do the Right Thing’. 

Read the official Press Release here.