A Belleville man wants to bring Ukrainian refugees to the area and is looking for help.
Ian Cobb says he’s lived without a roof over his head but, now that he is in a much better position financially, wants to give back by helping some of the millions of people who have lost their homes because of the Russian attacks in Ukraine.
Planning is in its infancy, but Cobb says he would like living quarters to be set up in a closed school or other building.
“So my idea is this, that I would try to get contractors to design each room in these buildings with a fridge, a stove and sleeping quarters and the barest necessities for a family to live.”
He knows local contractors are busy but is hoping some would be willing to help.
“But I’m going to see if they can volunteer or do it cheaply and see if we can’t set a building up for some major influx of refugees into our community and I can help line up sponsorship, etc.”
He suggests that the facilities could continue to be used to address local housing shortages later on.
Cobb, who says he willing to put forth his own money to get this started, is in conversation with Bay of Quinte MP Ryan Williams office about how they can help.
He says he’ll also be approaching local service groups to partner with.
If you are interested in helping, Cobb can be contacted at cobbiangrant@yahoo.ca or 613-968-9807.
