Toronto

1. Language Training Services

Programs:

• Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC):

  • Description: Free English language classes funded by the federal government for permanent residents and convention refugees.
  • Benefits: Helps newcomers improve their English skills for daily life, work, and further education. Classes often include cultural orientation and practical skills like resume writing.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access:
    1. Take a language assessment at a designated assessment center (e.g., YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Centre).
    2. Based on your assessment, you will be referred to a LINC provider near you.
  • Local Considerations: Classes are available in-person and online. Some centers offer free childcare while you attend classes.

• Enhanced Language Training (ELT):

  • Description: Advanced language training for professionals, including job-specific language skills and workplace culture.
  • Benefits: Includes job placement support and networking opportunities.
  • Cost: Free for eligible participants.
  • Procedure to Access: Contact a local settlement agency offering ELT programs (e.g., COSTI Immigrant Services or ACCES Employment).

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2. Employment Services

Programs:

• ACCES Employment:

  • Description: Provides job search workshops, resume building, interview preparation, and connections to employers.
  • Benefits: Specialized programs for internationally trained professionals in fields like IT, healthcare, engineering, and finance.
  • Cost: Free for newcomers.
  • Procedure to Access: Register online or visit one of their offices in Toronto.

• Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC):

  • Description: Offers mentorship programs and networking opportunities for skilled immigrants.
  • Benefits: Helps newcomers build professional connections and gain insights into the Canadian job market.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Apply online for mentorship programs.

• Job Search Workshops (JSW):

  • Description: Short-term workshops to help newcomers understand the Canadian job market, create resumes, and prepare for interviews.
  • Benefits: Provides practical tools and strategies for job hunting.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Offered by various settlement agencies like YMCA or COSTI.

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3. Housing Support Services

Programs:

• Housing Help Centres:

  • Description: Assist newcomers in finding affordable housing, understanding tenant rights, and navigating the rental market.
  • Benefits: Guidance on housing applications, lease agreements, and financial assistance programs.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Contact agencies like WoodGreen Community Services or The Housing Help Centre.

• Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) Housing:

  • Description: Subsidized housing where rent is based on household income.
  • Benefits: Affordable housing for low-income families.
  • Cost: Rent is typically 30% of household income.
  • Procedure to Access: Apply through Toronto Community Housing or the Housing Connections portal.

• Temporary Housing for Newcomers:

  • Description: Short-term accommodation for newly arrived immigrants and refugees.
  • Benefits: Provides a safe place to stay while searching for permanent housing.
  • Cost: Varies; some services are free for refugees.
  • Procedure to Access: Contact settlement agencies like COSTI or Sojourn House.

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4. Settlement and Orientation Services

Programs:

• Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS):

  • Description: Settlement workers placed in schools to help newcomer families adjust to the education system.
  • Benefits: Assistance with school registration, understanding the curriculum, and accessing community resources.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Available in most public schools in Toronto; inquire at your child’s school.

• Newcomer Information Centres (NICs):

  • Description: One-stop centers providing information on housing, healthcare, education, and employment.
  • Benefits: Personalized settlement plans and referrals to other services.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Visit an NIC location (e.g., YMCA Newcomer Information Centre).

• Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP):

  • Description: Settlement workers available at Toronto Public Library branches to provide information and referrals.
  • Benefits: Access to free workshops, language classes, and community events.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Visit participating library branches.

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5. Health and Wellness Services

Programs:

• Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP):

  • Description: Provides access to free healthcare services for eligible residents.
  • Benefits: Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and some medical procedures.
  • Cost: Free for OHIP cardholders.
  • Procedure to Access: Apply for OHIP at a ServiceOntario center. You will need proof of residency, identity, and immigration status.

• Community Health Centres (CHCs):

  • Description: Offer healthcare services to newcomers, including those without OHIP.
  • Benefits: Access to doctors, mental health support, and wellness programs.
  • Cost: Free or low-cost.
  • Procedure to Access: Contact a CHC near you (e.g., Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services).

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6. Financial Assistance Programs

Programs:

• Canada Child Benefit (CCB):

  • Description: Monthly tax-free payments to help families with the cost of raising children.
  • Benefits: Financial support for eligible families.
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • Procedure to Access: Apply through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) after filing your taxes.

• Ontario Works (OW):

  • Description: Provides financial assistance and employment support to individuals in need.
  • Benefits: Monthly payments for basic needs and access to job training programs.
  • Cost: Free to apply.
  • Procedure to Access: Apply online or visit a local OW office.

• Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP):

  • Description: Financial support for government-assisted refugees during their first year in Canada.
  • Benefits: Covers basic needs like housing, food, and transportation.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Procedure to Access: Administered through settlement agencies like COSTI.

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7. Community and Cultural Integration

Programs:

• Multicultural Community Organizations:

  • Description: Ethno-specific organizations offering cultural events, language support, and community connections.
  • Benefits: Helps newcomers maintain cultural ties while integrating into Canadian society.
  • Cost: Free or low-cost.
  • Procedure to Access: Search for organizations based on your cultural background (e.g., Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, Hispanic Development Council).

• Recreation Programs:

  • Description: Access to city-run recreational activities like sports, arts, and fitness programs.
  • Benefits: Promotes physical and social well-being.
  • Cost: Free or low-cost (fee subsidies available for low-income families).
  • Procedure to Access: Register through the City of Toronto’s website.

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Important Local Considerations

1. Eligibility: Many services are only available to permanent residents, convention refugees, or protected persons. Temporary residents (e.g., international students or work permit holders) may have limited access.
2. Documentation: Always carry your immigration documents (e.g., PR card, work permit) when accessing services.
3. Wait Times: Some programs, especially subsidized housing, may have long wait times. Apply as early as possible.
4. Transportation: Toronto’s public transit system (TTC) is reliable and widely used. Consider purchasing a Presto card for convenient travel to service locations.
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Toronto is highly diverse, and most service providers are trained to be culturally sensitive. Don’t hesitate to ask for language support if needed.

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By leveraging these settlement services, newcomers to Toronto can navigate their transition more smoothly and build a strong foundation for their new life in Canada.