Searching for Refugees

Tailored settlement, employment and information services to newcomer women through one-on-one counselling, workshops and mentoring

Newcomer Settlement Program

• assistance with settling and integrating into the community
• help with access to services in areas such as health care, housing, child care, education, employment, and general information on cultural adaptation
• form filling for government programs and services

Also participates in TRIEC mentoring partnership - connects newcomers with a supportive mentor in their field in Canada

Information, application forms and assistance on citizenship and immigration programs, including Permanent Resident Card

Administers Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP): ensures health services for refugees, protected persons and refugee claimants not yet covered by provincial health care

• information for clients, information for health care providers can be found here: www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre

Medical service providers that already accept IFHP:
ifhp-pfsi.medavie.bluecross.ca/en/search-ifhp-providers

Report suspected citizenship fraud: call the Client Support Centre and follow the options, or email [email protected]

Report suspicious immigration activity: call the Canada Border Services Agency Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060

Human trafficking hotline: 1-833-900-1010

Refugee claims: forms available on website and may be submitted online

For any application, appointments may be offered at:

• 325 Milner Ave, Suite 200, Scarborough
• 3085 Glen Erin Drive, Mississauga
• 5343 Dundas St W, Ste 105, Etobicoke

COVID19 Travel considerations affecting immigration and refugees:
www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19.html

Newcomer services include,

• citizenship classes
• job training, including
  • customer service
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certification
  • food and beverage manufacturing
  • food handler training and certification

• English language training, including
  • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) academic preparation program, business writing, English for work, English conversation circle
• G1 driver's license study support

Employment resources and coaching to find sustainable employment in Ontario

• assessment of skills, interests, and abilities
• job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
• information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
• help in maintaining employment
• information and referral to other employment and community services

All services at this site can be tailored to meet the needs of immigrants/newcomers

Offices are open, preferably by appointment; services are offered in-person and remotely over the phone and by Zoom

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Settlement Services

• assessments and referrals
• supportive counselling for youth, families and women
• Commissioner of Oath services
• sessions on topics such as housing, education, health care, social assistance, legal assistance, citizenship, professional licensing and job search
• crisis counselling

Confidential short-term non-clinical counselling for youth, adults or families experiencing a crisis situation related to adjusting to life in Canada, mental health, intimate partner violence, substance misuse, trauma, interpersonal problems, parenting or other situation

Community Connections Program

• brings Canadians and newcomers together to connect and make newcomers feel welcome
• services offered through volunteers and include introducing newcomers to life in Canada, hosting conversation circles to help newcomers practice English and facilitating networking opportunities.

Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by YMCA of Greater Toronto -- see separate entry

• full time classes
• childminding for children 19 months-5 years while parents attend classes

Multicultural Women's Wellness Program

• women experiencing mental health struggles and stresses can meet, socialize, share experiences, network, learn and stay active; offered in partnership with Canadian Mental Health Association

Transition to Employment for Newcomers

• for newcomers including internationally trained professionals and tradespeople
  individual coaching, linking to resources, and employment workshops‍

Bridging the Gap: Pathways to Early Childhood Education Careers for Internationally Trained Professionals

• 10-week, in-person program designed to help Internationally Trained Professionals transition into Ontario's Early Childhood Education sector
• technical and employment readiness training; CPR/First Aid, Food Handling
• training in workplace ethics, child protection, and Ontario childcare regulations
• one-week placement at a local childcare centre
• job search support, interview preparation, and career planning; individual coaching to explore ECE or Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) pathways; job maintenence

TRIEC Mentoring Partnership - see separate listing

Settlement Services

• reception and arrival orientation
• assistance with housing, banking and other needs
• referral to government and community services
• form filling help with government applications such as SIN, health card, child benefits, childcare subsidy, subsidized housing and Ontario Works
• help to restore lost or stolen documents
• translation and interpretation
• information and referral to employment services
• seasonal income tax clinic

Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by YMCA of Greater Toronto - see separate entry

• classes full or part-time, day or evening
• childminding available during day

Range of services and programs provided through communication channels such as phone, email, Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp and other channels, either in group sessions or individually; physical location is accessible by appointment

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Settlement Services

• information and referral services, housing and legal assistance
• translation and interpretation services
• counselling for students, individuals and families
• youth counselling and parenting sessions
• orientation programs
• Community Connections Mentorship Program for community support
• volunteer befriending for help adapting to the community and learning life skills
• group sessions such as wellness, English conversation classes, digital literacy
• referral services for credential assessment through World Education Services (WES)

Refugee Services

• support with attending inquiries
• assistance finding employment opportunities
• guidance with accessing social, welfare and legal services
• housing referral and assistance connecting with potential landlords
• provision of social and cultural activities
• Ontario Community Program Participation for placement of Ontario Works recipients as volunteers

Career Café - assists newcomers understand and integrate into the Canadian job market

• provides one-on-one and group sessions, both online and in-person
• offers self assessment tools,
• provides guidance in resume and cover letter writing
• assists in researching the job market and gives networking support

Access Centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)

• introduction to OESP; eligibility information
• assistance with applications; assistance in renewing previous applications

Range of services and programs provided through communication channels such as phone, email, Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp and other channels, either in group sessions or individually; physical location is accessible by appointment

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Youth Services

• youth engagement programs and services
• recreational activities and sports programs
• leadership development and mentoring opportunities
• social and cultural events for youth
• career guidance and job readiness workshops
• mental health and wellness support services tailored to youth

Halftime

• project designed for empowering Black youth
• aims to enhance resilience against risk factors of violence

Toronto Youth Job Corps (TYJC) - employment preparation program for youth, especially those facing a difficult life situation or having a hard time getting a job

• full time paid employment preparation program for youth 15-30 years who are out of school, out of work, and in need of employment support
• 5 week pre-employment activities including resume preparation, employment readiness skills, career planning, counselling and referral services
• 8 to 16 week supported placement with an employer in the community, with ongoing support even after completing the program
• placements are in various fields such as sales, administration, construction, or trades

Provides free English classes to newcomers and assists in integration newcomers to Canadian life and society

Language and Skills Training/Settlement Services Program

• participates in Language and Skills Training/Settlement Services Program in English, upon assessment by Achēv - see separate entry
• childminding available, bus fare for eligible attendees

Settlement Services

• settlement counselling
• information and referral to government and community services
• assistance to fill out government forms and applications such as PR card renewals, citizenship applications and forms for income support
• citizenship preparation
• support groups for women, youth, and seniors to aid in integration
• Vietnamese/English interpretation and translation
• certified translations Vietnamese/English by appointment only for birth certificates, marriage certificates, and school reports/diplomas
• commissioner of oaths by appointment only

Educational Programs

• citizenship classes
• English and Math tutoring for students in grades 1-12
• heritage language (Vietnamese)
• French classes
• computer classes

Job search techniques for resume writing and office skills

Cultural Services

• organizes traditional festivals, ritual ceremonies and Canadian celebrations
• traditional music and visual and performing arts programs and training
• picnics, camping trips, talent show

• practice English skills
• employment assistance
• volunteer opportunities
• homework help and mentorship support
• recreational activities including sports, music, arts
• family reunification
• in partnership with other service providers
• individual and group mental health and wellness support
• post-secondary and scholarship support

Focuses on education, recreation, arts, employment and volunteerism aiming to prevent isolation and promote health and well-being in children and youth

Newcomer Youth Success

• ​provides information and orientation sessions designed for youth
• includes sessions on career pathways, volunteering, financial management, health, community events/recreational activities
• community connections - arts and recreation-based activities to gain new skills and/or community service hours
• employment counselling, job search skills workshops, support with resumes and interview techniques, networking events and connection to employers

Mabelle After-School Program

• for children ages 6-13 years living in the Toronto Community Housing community of Mabelle
• indoor and outdoor recreational activities, homework help, nutrition and health education; snacks provided

Programs for women and older adults

• Women's Health and Wellbeing and Hub Program - weekly Zumba, aerobics and yoga classes followed by healthy food demonstration and education on nutritious recipes; registration required: [email protected], 647-638-3332
• The Bridge to Employment for Women - holistic career development including employment skills enhancement and readiness for job training; followed by 8 week co-op work placement, wraparound services, including mental well-being support and healthy lifestyle programs; [email protected] or 416-710-1271
• HEAL Network Workshops - information sessions offered in Arabic, Spanish, and English that address domestic violence, abuse against women and children who witness abuse, [email protected], 647-638-3332
• Pathway to Wellness for Seniors - 20-week inclusion and empowerment program for combining exercise, mental wellness, social engagement, and financial literacy; runs once a week for 2 hours; to register Sangeeta: [email protected], 437-215-5955
• Thrive for Life: Creating a Healthier Future - raises awareness and promotes best practices for chronic disease prevention and intervention through a weekly hybrid 2 hour drop-in program including: exercise sessions, chronic disease intervention, stabilization, and prevention sessions (including Q&A and group exercises), and nutritional food demonstration sessions; to register [email protected], 647-638-3332

  
  

Multiservice agency

• community information and referrals
• counselling, anger management
• counselling for youth and young adults
• employment assistance including resume/cover letter preparation, job search
• social housing application assistance
• year round income tax clinic
• leadership skills development
• children's breakfast club (on and off site)
• outreach
• workshops for women and youth
• social and recreation activities, including children's book club and youth homework club

Electricity bill support assistance: lead intake agency for Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) through Ontario Energy Board (OEB)

• pre-screening required, qualifying residents receive appointment to complete the application process
• access centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program: assistance with applications

Food, clothing, and toy distribution: for new immigrants, refugees and Ontario Works recipients

• intake assessment required
• annual Christmas toy distribution application deadline October 15

Newcomer Information Services

• information and referrals, including immigration, employment and community services
• counselling
• some form filling assistance
• access to computers

• information and newcomer' orientation; group information sessions on settlement
• referrals to access other programs and services
• interpretation
• support with applications to government programs and services
• settlement counselling; family reunification support
• English conversation classes
• computer skills training; life skills seminars

• employment counseling
• career exploration, goal setting and planning
• job search assistance and workshops e.g LinkedIn workshops
• networking with employers
• resume and cover letter preparation, mock interviews
• labour market information and exploration
• referral to other employment-related information and programs

• leadership training and workshops, education and information sessions on topics relevant to youth
• summer activities and festive seasonal celebrations
• financial literacy training, financial planning support for post-secondary education
• career planning, academic support
• life coaching, supportive counselling
• information sessions on topics that impact family wellbeing

• leadership training and workshops, skills development
• supportive counselling
• support for women in abusive relationships

• social, recreation and wellness programs
• information and support in applying for Old Age Security, Canada Pension Plan, Guaranteed Income Supplement, seniors housing
• supportive counselling

Transitional Housing

• 19 units across 5 houses each with shared living rooms, garden or outdoor space, laundry
• capacity up to 80 people; stays up to 12 months
• supports include help with refugee claim legal process and access to social assistance, education, employment, health care and finding permanent housing
• material supports: clothing bank, weekly food bank and other essentials
• community programs: kids club, communal suppers, holiday celebrations, family summer camp
• ongoing connection: some support continues for families after they move out

Settlement and accompaniment services for newly arrived refugee claimants including those with refused refugee claims

• navigating refugee process
• connecting to Legal Aid and free immigration legal advice; finding a lawyer
• scheduling Immigration Medical Exam; changing address with immigration
• applying for social assistance income/government benefits
• connecting to English as a Second Language (ESL) schools/English conversation groups
• applying for subsidized housing and other housing supports
• connecting with community resources - finding schools for children, opening bank accounts

Settlement Program

• needs assessment and referral, information and orientation
• translation and interpretation
• assistance with government applications and form filling
• citizenship classes
• participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by YMCA of Greater Toronto, childminding and TTC tokens available -- see separate entry

Newcomers from the Ukraine who came to Canada via the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) can also receive settlement services

Employment Support Services

• assessment and employment counselling
• job search training, resume preparation, workshops
• referral to employment centres
• access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier

Newcomer Youth Program

• social, educational and recreational services
• information and outreach
• employment assistance
• peer tutoring - suspended until further notice
• youth leadership development

Income Tax Support

• year round income tax clinic by appointment for individuals and families with low incomes
• seasonal income tax clinic with West Neighbourhood House

Educational and Cultural Activities

• workshops and information on Canadian culture and multicultural diversity
• annual events and recognition of global celebrations
• anti-racism and access and equity programs
• community events, festivals and celebrations

Settlement Program

• needs assessment and referral, information and orientation
• translation and interpretation
• assistance with government applications and form filling
• citizenship classes and facilitation of ceremonies
• participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by YMCA of Greater Toronto, childminding and TTC tokens available -- see separate entry

Settlement services are also available to newcomers from the Ukraine who have come to Canada through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)

Employment Services

• assessment and employment counselling
• job search training, resume preparation, workshops
• referral to employment centres
• access to computers, Internet, fax, photocopier

Newcomer Youth Program

• social, educational and recreational services
• information and outreach
• employment assistance
• peer tutoring (suspended until further notice)
• youth leadership development

Income Tax Support

• year-round income tax clinic by appointment for individuals and families with low incomes
• seasonal income tax clinic with West Neighbourhood House

Educational and Cultural Activities

• workshops and information on Canadian culture and multicultural diversity
• annual events and recognition of global celebrations
• anti-racism and access and equity programs
• community events, festivals and celebrations

Child Minding Training Program: in partnership with Davenport Perth Neighbourhood and Community Health Centre, and Queen West Community Health Centre

Seniors Programs

• Saturday social and exercise program
• Tibetan Seniors Program
• Tai Chi, Line Dance and Yoga
• Thursday afternoon English conversation class for Tibetan seniors
• drop-in facility and social, emotional and settlement support for seniors

Settlement services including orientation, information and referral, counselling and support

Newcomer Settlement Services (NSP) - for refugee claimants and other newcomers

• one-on-one settlement counselling and referrals
• help with filling out forms; assistance with immigration status
• orientation sessions and workshops
• culturally sensitive services for the Roma community

Library Settlement Program (LSP) and Settlement in Community Spaces (SCS)

• for Permanent Residents and Convention Refugees
• newcomer outreach at libraries and newcomer kiosks; outreach program based in elementary and secondary schools during school year
• orientation workshops, one-on-one settlement services; community referrals
• employment support services; career mentoring and networking events
• individualized action plan, settlement information and referral, group activities
• citizenship education circles; English conversation circles
• Newcomers Explore and Appreciate Toronto (NEAT)

Newcomer Mental Health Program

• one-on-one brief counselling to newcomers with complex needs, as well as comprehensive settlement needs assessment
• referrals to appropriate community programs and resources
• group activities that provide coping strategies, support, skill-building and self-help opportunities

Cybersecurity Training - IT Security Bridge Training

• for internationally trained professionals with IT backgrounds to prepare for jobs in cybersecurity
• training for a Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate
• mentoring, networking, and help with resumes and interview preparation
• providing a personalized job search plan, labour market information, networking

Blend of virtual and in-person services offered
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Settlement Services

• counselling, individual or group integration and orientation assistance
• form filling; conversation circles; citizenship test preparation
• information and referral in the areas of training and education, basic banking, legal assistance, health care, housing, interpretation, translation

Sister2Sister Community Leadership Program

• six-month free leadership development program, see website for eligibility
• participants learn diverse skill set and have the opportunity to build their social and human capital to become formal and informal leaders in their communities.

Sister2Sister Advanced Leadership Program

• skills and leadership development program that bridges the gap between employer needs and newcomer women skills, see website for eligibility
• intensive training in soft and hard skills capped by a paid internship through agency's strategic partner network.

Resource Centre

• employment information and assistance such as job search techniques, apprenticeship information, co-op and volunteering information, information on starting a business, resumes and cover letters
• one-on-one employment assistance and counselling by appointment
• access to phones, fax machine, photocopier and scanner, computers with internet, reference materials

Job Search Workshops for Newcomers

• employment counsellors help newcomer clients to identify steps to reach employment goals and understand specific occupations in Canada
• learn job search strategies
• gain knowledge of Canadian work culture, labour market and employer expectations
• network and contact employers, connect with mentoring programs

Digital Literacy

• one-on-one support in computer basics including MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint), Internet, email, social media and job applications

TRIEC Mentoring Partnership (Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council)

• helps immigrant professionals reconnect with their careers; mentees receive support and advice from mentors in their profession -- see separate listing

Entrepreneurship

• training on taking first steps to start a business
• support in business planning, goal setting, marketing, financial resources and other supports available for small businesses
  
  

Food Handler Training and Certification

• for newcomers and other job seekers
• learn about safe food handling practices and prepare for certification exam
• assistance with job search tools and techniques, and support with co-op or job placement
• free childminding and bus fare for eligible participants

Some trainings may take place at other agency locations; please contact organization for details