Crossing the Cold: A Survival Guide for Undocumented Families Entering Canada from the U.S.

“It wasn’t just a border we crossed — it was a leap into the unknown.”

Every year, hundreds of undocumented families risk everything to cross into Canada from the United States. Their reasons vary — denied asylum claims, fear of deportation, family separation — but their goal is often the same: a chance at safety, dignity, and a future. This guide follows the fictionalized journey of the Rahimi family and integrates real-world resources to help other undocumented families find their footing in Canada.

1. The Journey North

In February 2025, the Rahimi family — Amir, Layla, and their two children — left a makeshift shelter in Buffalo, NY, guided only by a GPS pin, a thermal blanket, and desperation. After months of failed hearings and denied motions in U.S. immigration court, they decided to walk across the snow-laden forest trails of Roxham Road, Quebec.

They had heard rumors: that once on Canadian soil, they could claim asylum; that Canada was safer, more welcoming, that refugee claimants weren’t treated like criminals. But the snow was real. So were the frozen fingers and the child coughing under Layla’s coat. After three hours, they saw the sign — “Welcome to Canada.” Moments later, two RCMP officers arrived.

2. First Contact and Processing

The family was taken to a border processing station in Lacolle. There, they expressed their intent to claim refugee status. Canadian Border Services agents initiated paperwork, took fingerprints, issued health checks, and asked standard questions. The Rahimis were not detained in prison, but rather held in a temporary processing center with other families.

They were issued release documents and allowed to enter temporarily while their refugee claim was reviewed. They were advised to find legal help and a place to stay.

3. Shelter and Emergency Housing

Through a local church referral, the Rahimis were welcomed at Matthew House Refugee Shelter in Ottawa. It was crowded but safe. Volunteers brought food. Their first hot shower in weeks made them cry.

• Matthew House Ottawa — 380 Forest St, Ottawa, ON | +1 613-255-0168
• Sojourn House Toronto — 101 Ontario St, Toronto, ON | +1 416-864-0515

4. Legal Support: Making the Claim

They contacted the FCJ Refugee Centre for legal assistance. The center helped them file their official refugee claim. Layla’s cousin was kidnapped by a militia in their home country, and Amir had refused to join a local armed group — this formed the basis of their persecution narrative.

• FCJ Refugee Centre — 208 Oakwood Ave, Toronto, ON | +1 416-469-9754

They were assigned a legal aid-funded attorney who helped gather documents, prep for hearings, and ensure their children’s situation was addressed.

5. Healthcare and School Access

Through Crossroads Clinic at Women’s College Hospital, Layla was treated for pneumonia, and both kids received vaccinations. Ontario allowed the children to enroll in school while their claim was being processed. They were registered with the Toronto District School Board and assigned a settlement worker.

• Crossroads Clinic — Women’s College Hospital, Toronto | +1 416-323-6400 ext. 4979

6. Waiting for the IRB Hearing

They waited eight months for a hearing with the Immigration and Refugee Board. During this time, Amir worked cash jobs. Layla volunteered in a local food bank. The community supported them — both materially and emotionally.

7. The Decision

At the hearing, they told their story. Their lawyer emphasized the political and personal threats they faced. After weeks of waiting, they were granted Protected Person status.

8. The Path to Permanent Residency

One year later, the Rahimis applied for permanent residency. Their children were thriving in school. Amir found stable work through a refugee employment program. They began to rebuild their lives — legally, safely, and with dignity.

Conclusion: What You Can Do

If you or someone you know is facing a similar journey, know that help exists. Canada’s system is not perfect, but with the right information and community support, survival is possible — and so is healing.

📌 For a full directory of free refugee shelters, legal help, and healthcare resources in Canada, visit Travvilo.com. Your journey matters — and you don’t have to walk it alone.