Settlement and Integration Services

Settlement Services at the Welcome Centres assist immigrants and refugees to settle and integrate in order to become established and contributing members of Canadian society.

Settlement Services are provided by Settlement Counsellors (in either individual or group settings) to help immigrants and their families deal with problems related to their adjustment, adaptation and integration in the community. In partnership with the client, Settlement Counsellors help establish priorities, identify services required, assist with scheduling appointments, registering for appropriate programs and finding information.

Immigrant Settlement & Adaptation Program/Newcomer Settlement Program

These programs offer newcomer orientation workshops, information, referrals, guidance, advocacy, interpretation and translation, adjustment counselling, newcomer support groups, public education, community outreach and family life education. Information sessions are held regularly on settlement related topics such as education, housing, employment, taxation and community resources.

Community Connections
(formerly known as HOST Program)

This volunteer program welcomes newcomers with resident Canadians who provide guidance and mentoring in a group setting. The program promotes cultural integration and is designed to:

• assist immigrants/refugees to become established and contributing members of Canadian society;
• promote community awareness and cultural sensitivity to the needs of immigrants/refugees in York Region;
• encourage racial understanding and harmony among residents in York Region;
• make new contacts through social events and practice conversational English or French.

For more information about Settlement and Integration Services, call 1-877-761-1155 or send an email to info@welcomecentre.ca