Thousands of refugees have settled into New York state over the last year. One organization in Ontario County is helping those looking for a safe life. 

Inside a church in Canandaigua, teenager Vika and her mother met with their volunteer team. Vika and her family moved from Ukraine to the United States one year ago, escaping conflict in search of a safer life. 

They did so with the help of Called to Care, an organization that brings refugees from Ukraine and Haiti to Canandaigua and helps them start a new life. 

“It’s been a real joy to see how they have come and found safety here," said Called to Care president Cheryl Drake. "They’re here for safety and sanctuary."

The organization started in 2022 after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Vika’s family is one of 15 Called to Care has helped so far. Called to Care works with World Relief to bring the families to Canandaigua on a two-year temporary stay visa. They’re also given $10,000 to help start their new life. 

“We bring people here legally," Drake said. "It’s not on taxpayers. Called to Care does lots of fundraisers."

Once families arrive in Canandaigua, volunteers make up good neighbor teams to help them adjust to their new life and city. 

“You walk alongside the family, you’re taking care of," Drake said. "You help with medical needs and with healthcare. You become their family."

It's a family that Drake hopes continues to grow. 

“I want to be sure that people know these people are no different than 99% of us," Drake said. "They came here looking for a better place."