Each year, the City of Toronto hosts an information fair at Toronto Newcomer Day. The information fair promotes newcomers’ knowledge of programs available to them. While we can’t celebrate in person this year, over 85 community organizations, City Divisions and institutions have come together to showcase their programs and services available to newcomers in Toronto at the virtual information fair.

To help you navigate the virtual information fair, exhibitors are organized by types of services. In addition, many exhibitors have organized virtual rooms to meet and greet you and answer any questions you have. Meet and greet spaces will be able available from 10:30 a.m. to noon and again from 2 to 3 p.m. Be sure to join a session to learn more about services available to you.

Autism Ontario

Autism Ontario is a charitable organization supporting and representing people on the autism spectrum and their families across Ontario. Made up of knowledgeable parents, professionals, and autistic self-advocates who can speak to the key issues that impact those with autism and their families, Autism Ontario is the province’s leading source of information and referral on autism, and one of the largest collective voices representing the autism community. Members are connected through a volunteer network of 25 Chapters through key regions across the province of Ontario.

Visit Autism Ontario’s website for more information.

Resources: Service Navigation, Service Navigation Request Form

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 969 1192 0749

Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf Adult Education Program

Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf (BRCCED) Adult Education Program, Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program helps Deaf and Hard of Hearing Newcomers to learn ASL (American Sign Language), English, Math, Computer and Canadian Citizenship in a supportive ASL enriched environment. Our LINC program also offers Crisis Counselling, Employment Services and ASL Interpreting.

Visit Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf’s website for more information.

Email: KReid@bobrumball.org

The Learning Disabilities Association of Toronto District

The Settlement Program Learning Abilities Services Hub (SPLASH) has been proudly serving newcomer clients with a spectrum of learning challenges for the past four years. Since the program’s inception in June 2017, S.P.L.A.S.H has served more than 2,000 newcomer clients. Newcomers with LD’s and/or ADHD require extra help in many facets of their settlement experience. The SPLASH Program offers specialized settlement services with a focus on client-centred settlement plans, specialized language instruction, individual settlement counselling, group mentorship, information and orientation sessions, community connections and employment support. Most of our services (which are currently being offered virtually) include:

  • One-to-one settlement counselling and case management
  • Settlement referrals
  • English Conversation Circles
  • LINC/CLIC Language Learner Support
  • Career Information Sessions
  • Mindfulness and Stress reduction Workshops
  • Art Therapy/Creative workshops
  • Healthy eating and Nutrition Education
  • Recreational/Educational Field trips

Visit The Learning Disabilities Association of Toronto District’s website for more information.

Email: aazam@ldatd.on.ca

Phone number: 647-531-1680

Muse Arts

Working with community partners, MUSE Arts create spaces for Emerging Artists who identify as immigrant, newcomer and/or refugees and belong equity-seeking groups, to showcase their work, to access opportunities for professional development and to engage communities meaningfully and actively in hands-on, high-quality arts education integrated to issues of Social Justice. MUSE Arts produces HAPPENING Multicultural, the first and only Toronto festival made by community artists, giving center-stage to the talents and skills of immigrant, newcomer, and refugee artists. This year’s festival takes place during the entire month of May and brings more than 80 artists and performers belonging to diverse communities.

Visit Muse Arts’ website for more information.

Twitter

National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada

The National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and integrate the economic, social and culture interest of ethnic communities into the mainstream of Canadian society. The NEPMCC represents Canada’s dynamic ethnic media! With more than 800 members across Canada, we represent print, online, radio and tv outlets in more than  120 languages. Stay connected to your community and learn about what leaders in your community are doing as proud Canadians.

Visit National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada’s website for more information.

Email: saras@nepmcc.ca

Phone number: 416-921-8926

New Canadians TV

New Canadians is a national TV show and web-based series focused on newcomers to Canada and would-be immigrants. Produced by New Horizons Media Inc., New Canadians airs weekly episodes on OMNI Television and posts exclusive content on its website, YouTube channel and social media platforms. New Canadians has become a go-to resource and a trusted connection to valuable information and resources on immigration, settlement, education, employment and entrepreneurship in Canada. The show also profiles successful immigrants and covers immigration news. New Canadians also produces Café New Canadians, a weekly virtual event series, where experts and immigrants from diverse sectors discuss topics that matter to immigrants and international students.

Visit New Canadians TV’s website for more information.

Email: contact@newcanadians.tv

Small World Music

eMERGEnce is Small World Music’s artist development program for under-represented and equity-seeking newcomer, refugee, and emerging artists, dedicated to supporting career sustainability and integration into Toronto’s music landscape and the Canadian cultural infrastructure. For 2020, a Cohort of 26 musicians were chosen from a pool of applicants to participate in the inaugural year’s program, which included career-development workshops, networking opportunities, music incubation, mentorship, and performance opportunities.

Visit Small World Music’s website for more information.

Resources: eMERGEnce Programme

Email: emergence@smallworldmusic.com

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 361553 – access code: 953 4772 6210

 

Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts

The citySPECIAL program, operated by the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts, was created to increase awareness and accessibility to performing arts events in Toronto and targets newcomer Canadians as a priority group.

citySPECIAL features:

  • (pre & post pandemic) Theatre tickets are provided for free to clients of more than 120 registered Toronto agencies.
  • (during pandemic) Monthly newsletter features listings of free online, virtual performance events, panel discussions and play readings.
  • (during & post pandemic) Virtual 45 minute workshop on Theatre Careers exploring performing arts work options.

Visit Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts’ website for more information.

Email: scottd@tapa.ca 

Toronto Arts Council

The Toronto Arts Council (TAC) is the city’s arms-length funder for the arts, funding organizations, collectives, and individual artists. TAC funding opportunities available to support newcomer artists which include:

  • Newcomer & Refugee Arts Engagement Program – a program providing targeted funding to Toronto non-profit organizations and artist collectives engaging newcomers and refugees through the arts, supporting the integration and inclusion of newcomer communities to Toronto. The set grant amount is $20,000.
  • Newcomer & Refugee Artist Mentorship Program – a program providing support for newcomer and refugee artists to develop their artistic practice and to further their integration and inclusion to Toronto. Grants up to $10,000 available.

Visit Toronto Arts Council’s website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 994 1786 8929

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 994 1786 8929

Toronto International Film Festival

The Toronto International Film Festival (better known as TIFF) is a not-for-profit cultural organization with a mission to transform the way people see the world through film. TIFF is dedicated to presenting the best of international and Canadian cinema and creating transformational experiences for film lovers and creators of all ages and backgrounds. As Canada’s premiere home of cinema, TIFF offers film screenings, lectures, discussions, festivals, workshops, events, professional development and opportunities to meet, hear and learn from filmmakers from Canada and around the world. Our online viewing platform, digital TIFF Bell Lightbox, allows audiences to rent and watch a variety of new and classic films on demand from anywhere in Canada. To subscribe to the TIFF email list, contact: tiff.net/subscribe.

Visit Toronto International Film Festival’s website for more information.

Toronto Ward Museum

Founded in 2015, is a Museum-without-Walls–Canada’s first museum of migration and a cultural institution that strengthens understanding of immigration history through innovation in interpretation and public engagement. The museum’s namesake, the St. John’s Ward was a historic Toronto neighbourhood and a landing point for newcomers. In collaboration with partners, community, youth teams and artists, the museum develops and creates community-engaged programming and exhibitions bringing the city’s untold history to life, and engages visitors and locals in conversations about pluralism and what it means for our communities. Programming is virtual and under pandemic-friendly conditions delivered in neighbourhoods throughout the city.

Visit Toronto Ward Museum’s website for more information.

Resources: Not Just Numbers On-Line Game

Email: director@wardmuseum.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 090144

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 954 3663 2519

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 090144

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 954 3663 2519

Youth Assisting Youth

Youth Assisting Youth supports newcomer children, ages 6 to 15, with free virtual tutoring, virtual/in-person mentoring and many other programs. We match youth mentors, ages 16 to 29, with newcomer children in a 1:1 peer mentoring relationship since 1976. Youth Assisting Youth’s customized program uniquely matches youth based on personality, interests, location and specific needs such as language. We also organize monthly activities to bring our matches together. Their peer mentoring program works. Their youth do better in school, they stay out of trouble, they turn around to give back to their communities, and many come back to be mentors themselves.

Visit Youth Assisting Youth’s website for more information.

Resources: Apply for a Tutor, Apply for a Mentor, Virtual Programs

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Centennial College

Occupation Specific Language Training Courses

These practical and innovative part-time evening courses in Business and Project Management help participants with training in understanding the Canadian workplace. You will learn how to effectively interact on the job with customers or patients, and co-workers. The course also develops strong interviewing, networking, socio-cultural and career-building communication skills.

Delivery: Virtual/Blended

Dates: September 9 to December 21, 2021

Email: oslt@centennialcollege.ca

Phone number: 416-289-5000 ext. 7405

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

George Brown College

George Brown’s OSLT (Occupation-specific Language Training) is a language communication program funded by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for internationally educated professionals who are permanent residents or protected persons to help improve their workplace communication skills within the context of their profession. Participants will develop the language and communication skills needed to better understand workplace culture in their occupation and sector and to find or retain employment in their field. The courses are delivered in a variety of formats at leading Ontario colleges. These practical courses will help newcomers connect and integrate into the workforce.

Resources: OSLT Overview

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 533870

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 921 3891 1902

Humber College

Humber College is one of Canada’s leading postsecondary educational institutions with an internationally recognized reputation for quality learning. Humber offers a wide range of career-focused opportunities and is dedicated to helping newcomers meet their educational and career goals. Programs are currently being delivered online (May 2021).

Resources: Humber College Resource List

Email: communityoutreach@humber.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

Seneca College

Combining career and professional skills training with theoretical knowledge, Seneca provides a polytechnic education to 30,000 full-time and 60,000 part-time students. With campuses in Toronto, York Region and Peterborough, the college offers degrees, diplomas and certificates in more than 300 full-time, part-time and online programs. Many of these programs include co-op and work placements. If you are a newcomer or internationally-trained individual or if you completed high school outside of Canada, Seneca has a wide range of upgrading options to help you get started on your post-secondary journey or employment goals. Some of these programs are free. Seneca also offers 100+ short-term microcredentials that allow you to change careers or learn new skills in key industries. For those with previous post-secondary education or work experience, you can fast-track your education with our accelerated programs, graduate certificates, bridging programs or by transferring your credits.

Resources: Seneca College Resource List, Contact Us Tool

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from  2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Toronto Catholic District School Board Adult Education Program

The Toronto Catholic District School Board Adult Education Program provides free language training courses in English and French to eligible adult immigrants during the day, evenings and weekends. We also offer Upgrading in reading, writing and math (Essential Skills Training). Since COVID-19, courses are either hybrid (in-class and online) or online only.

Resources: Course Finder

Twitter, Instagram

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 995 0617 6632

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 928 5111 4109

Toronto Centre of Learning and Development

The Centre of Learning & Development (CL&D) is a charitable community agency, which delivers programs in immigrant integration, adult literacy, income security, leadership development, civic engagement and skills development. All of the programs offered at CL&D are free and most programs are offered virtually during the pandemic. Programs for newcomers include:

  • Academic Upgrading – an Adult Literacy and Basic Skills Program
  • Immigrant Women Integration Program- a Community Leadership Program
  • Food Processing Essential Skills- Workplace and Manufacturing Safety Certificate
  • Centre of Opportunities for Regent Park Enterprises- Catering Collective and Sewing Studio
  • Other Learning Opportunities – including micro- and up-skilling programs and educational workshops

Email: info@tccld.org

Phone number: 647-493-2462

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 986 1675 6739

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 986 1675 6739

Toronto District School Board – Community Services

The Community Services Unit of the Board is all about improving lives and contributing to society by supporting everyone’s well-being and settlement into their new home city. Every year, the Community Services Unit connects more than 20,000 people with opportunities to help them achieve their goals – whether it is finding employment or learning English. The Unit offers settlement support, employment services and career planning, skills upgrading in reading, writing, numeracy and digital technology, apprenticeship training, language instruction, enhanced language training and much more. The programs are designed to support a wide range of people – from adults and youth to newcomers and people with disabilities. All programs are currently being delivered remotely/virtually.

Resources: TDSB Programs and Services

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

York University Internationally Educated Professional

York University’s Bridging Programs for Internationally Educated Professionals (IEPs) support IEPs to transition with confidence into a job in their professional field in Canada. Participants complete credit foundation courses created exclusively for IEPs that focus on developing their Canadian professional communication, management or IT skills. Participants can also take a selection of specialized courses in their professional field, including Business fields (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Public Administration, Management and HR) or Information Technology. While in the programs students access language support classes, career coaching and activities to help them to develop their job search skills and grow their professional network. In May the university is intaking students’ applications to the Foundation Program starting in the summer. For more information view the program Information Brochure.

Resources: Canadian Business IEP Certificate, IEP Foundation Program, IT-IEP Certificate 

Email: makemore@yorku.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 723914

Or join by telephone: 647-374-4685 – access code: 928 4431 2396

Session 2

Tueday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 723914

Or join by telephone: 647-374-4685 – access code: 928 4431 2396

ACCES Employment

ACCES Employment assists job seekers from diverse backgrounds facing barriers to employment, to integrate into the Canadian job market. ACCES achieves this by providing employment services, linking employers to skilled individuals and building strong networks in collaboration with community partners. All of our programs and services are currently offered virtually and address a variety of employment barriers by providing the following: knowledge about specific sectors in Canada, connections to employers, language and workplace communications training, knowledge about Canadian workplace culture and job search skills. ACCES has more than 35 years of experience and delivers employment services to more than 39,000 clients annually at seven locations across the Greater Toronto Area.

Visit ACCES Employment’s website for more information.

Resources: ACCES Employment Locations

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Access Community Capital Fund

ACCESS Community Capital Fund is a registered Canadian charity based in Toronto. ACCESS helps people in financial need in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area who want to achieve their dreams of starting small businesses or relaunching successful careers in Canada.

Visit Access Community Capital Fund’s website for more information.

Resources: Foreign Credential Recognition Loan Program (FCR), Small Business Loan Program, Women’s Business Accelerator Program (WBA), Small Business Accelerator Program (SBA)

Email: fares@accessccf.com

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses

CARE Centre assists Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) to become Registered Nurses or Registered/Licensed Practical Nurses in Canada. CARE Centre is funded by the Ontario government to deliver the Supports, Training and Access to Regulated-employment Services (STARS) Program. The federal government, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, funds the Pre-Arrival Supports and Services (PASS) Program. CARE Centre partners with many educational, settlement and healthcare organizations, so member IENs can take the best path to write their nursing registration exam and network toward their first employment.

Visit CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses’ website for more information.

Resources: CARE Programs and Services

JVS Toronto

JVS Toronto is one of the leaders in the employment field, with more than 74 years of experience helping newcomers integrate into the Canadian workplace and society. Through collaboration with employers, educational institutions, and settlement organizations, JVS delivers the highest quality services by identifying and responding to individual needs. JVS offers a variety of supports including job search workshops, enhanced language training and bridging programs (finance, architecture, IT, healthcare and others); mentoring, job fairs, and networking with industry experts. They also offer individual counselling, career planning and mental health supports as well as pre-arrival services and programs for newcomer youth.

Visit JVS Toronto’s website for more information.

Resources: Canadian Workplace Communication for Newcomers, Job Search Workshops, IPLAN Employment, ISAGE International Skills Applied for Geriatrics

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Teams Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Teams Event

Learning Enrichment Foundation

Programs Include:

  • English Classes (LINC levels Literacy to 7)
  • Newcomer Services (Furniture Bank Referral, Citizenship Classes, Childcare Subsidy, Volunteer, Applications for Permanent Residence, Citizenship, CCB benefits)
  • Employment Supports
  • Skills Training (Industrial Skills, ECA)
  • Bridging Program Alternative Careers in Health Promotion
  • Social Entrepreneurship Program for Newcomers
  • Supports for Internationally Trained Individuals
  • Foreign Credentials Recognition Loan Program
  • Youth & Seniors Programs
  • Career Discovery for Internationally Trained Professionals

All services are being offered online between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Services are available in Amharic, Arabic, Cantonese, Farsi, French, Mandarin, Persian, Portuguese, Spanish, Tigrinya, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu and Vietnamese.

Visit The Learning Enrichment Foundation’s website for more information.

Email: newcomers@lefca.org

Phone number: 416-769-0830

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 996916

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 842 1187 6688

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 996916

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 842 1187 6688

NPower

NPower Canada is a national non-profit organization providing low-income, diverse individuals with FREE technical, professional, and life skills training, industry certifications, job placement supports, and five years of alumni career services.

Visit NPower’s website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 939 0999 2421

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 939 0999 2421

PTP Adult Learning and Employment Programs

PTP delivers client-focused programs that create positive pathways to employment. They work with you to design a learning pathway tailored to your individual strengths and needs. Programs and services are currently being offered online.

Visit PTP Adult Learning and Employment Programs’ website for more information.

Resources: Career and Employment Counselling, Workforce Literacy and Essential Skills Program, Workforce Essential Skills – English for Work, Work in Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Academic Skills Upgrading, Ontario High School Equivalency Certificate (GED Achievement)

Phone number: 416-510-3266 (East), 416-239-7309 (West)

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): t2Nq3N – access code: 875 1399 6434

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): t2Nq3N – access code: 875 1399 6434

Skills for Change

For 38 years, Skills for Change has played a major role in uplifting immigrant communities. As one of the leading holistic service providers for newcomers and internationally-trained professionals in Canada, Skills for Change offers more than 25 programs and services, and annually serves 16,000 people who are newcomers, immigrants, and vulnerable groups. Skills for Chante provides learning and training opportunities for immigrants and refugees to access and fully participate in the workplace and wider community. Offering a range of accelerated programs, services offered include information and referral, French and English language assessment, English language instruction, integrated language/skills training, employment preparation, business skills, mentoring, entrepreneurship skills, skilled trades and settlement services.

Visit Skills for Change’s website for more information.

Resources: Annual Report 2019-2020

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

The Career Foundation

The Career Foundation has been in operation since 1988. Annually, the organization helps more than 4,000 job seekers transition into employment. All their services are provided at no cost. Presently, due to COVID-19, they are delivering their services virtually. Some examples of the digital services we provide to all clients include:

  • One-on-one support with an Employment Specialist, including assistance with updating your resume and improving your interview skills
  • Ability to connect with employers hiring now
  • Online workshops to enhance your job search skills

Additionally, our fully virtual Newcomer Advantage program helps newcomers access sector-specific networking and mentorship opportunities in IT/Technology, Finance, Skilled Trades and more.

Visit The Career Foundation’s website for more information.

Resources: Newcomer Advantage Project

Email: kreynolds@careerfoundation.org

Phone number: 437-500-3310

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Tropicana Community Services

Tropicana Employment Centre is committed to your success. Every job seeker is different, which is why they have a variety of free services available to meet your needs. Their goal is for you to be happily employed, and they will support you through their programs. Once you connect with Tropicana, they will assess your needs and determine the best way to assist you. They are currently offering full services remotely to adults, youth, newcomers and students. Their services include Employment Service, Youth Job Connection, Youth Job Connection Summer and Networks. Employer supports include job postings, training incentives, recruitment services and workplace support. In addition to their services, they also offer a variety of pre-employment workshops such as resume, interview skills, customer service, health and safety awareness and many others.

Visit Tropicana Community Services’ website for more information.

Resources: Tropicana Workshops

Email: sseelochan@tropicanaemployment.ca

Phone number: 437-918-9247 ext. 2640

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 936 2315 2022

VPI Working Solutions

VPI Working Solutions offers free job-search support for recent immigrants in Ontario! Their free services include career planning and job fairs to help you find the opportunities that are right for you; resume help and interview practice to help you impress employers; workshops to get you ready for work in Canada; and one-on-one guidance from their employment experts.

Visit VPI Working Solutions’ website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 592853

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 944 2290 6975

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 996690

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 927 5837 1131

YMCAGTA – Employment Services

Every year at the YMCA of Greater Toronto (YMCAGTA), they connect tens of thousands of job seekers to good quality jobs. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff will work with you to support your employment goals. Virtual career advice and guidance virtual resume and cover letter writing support virtual job fairs, information sessions, and interactive webinars.

YMCAGTA is a trusted charity dedicated to improving the health of our communities. They tailor their programs, services, and facilities to meet local needs. YMCAGTA welcomes newcomers, embraces diversity and encourages community participation.

Visit YMCA GTA Employment Services’ website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): YMCA2021@@ – access code: 983 5347 4340

YWCA Toronto JUMP Scarborough Program

The YWCA JUMP program is for newcomer women, girls and gender-diverse people, ages 13 and up. They are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and their goal is to support clients with their settlement and employment needs by building their skills, assisting them with the job search process and helping them integrate into Canadian society.

YMCA JUMP is currently conducting all services remotely through telephone, email and Zoom. Services include one-on-one support and group workshops/webinars. When it is safe to do so, they will return to the office, and support clients in-person as well.

Visit YWCA Toronto JUMP Scarborough Program’s website for more information.

Resources: General Flyer

Email: JUMPScarborough@ywcatoronto.org

Phone number: 416-266-0303

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647-558-0588 – access code: 889 3300 5161

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647-558-0588 – access code: 889 3300 5161

Desjardins

Welcome to Toronto! Whether you’ve just arrived, or you’ve been here for a while, we know you have a lot to do and you might be looking for some help with your financial needs. Desjardins is a partner you can trust. As Canada’s largest financial cooperative, Desjardins is here to serve and support newcomers to Toronto. We understand your needs and we are here to help. Our advisors are acquainted with the needs of newcomers and will be happy to welcome you and assist you in setting up your finances in your new country of residence.

Visit Desjardins’ website for more information.

Phone number: 1-877-875-1118

Virtual Meet and Greet

Available in French and English

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Teams Event

Or join by telephone: 1-438-315-1084 – access code: 263 769 600

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Teams Event

Or join by telephone: 1-438-315-1084 – access code: 179-158-348

CLIF Toronto

Le Réseau en Immigration Francophone de la région Centre-Sud-Ouest de l’Ontario est l’un des 13 réseaux en immigration francophones (RIF) du Canada, qui a pour objectif de favoriser l’accueil, l’établissement et l’intégration réussie des immigrants francophones au sein des communautés francophones en situation minoritaire.

Visit CLIF Toronto’s website for more information.

Resources: Guide Des Ressources Francophones de Toronto

Email: Jeanclaude.nda@cshn.ca

Phone number: 905-528-0163 ext. 3296

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 856 4689 0252

Centre Francophone du Grande Toronto

Le Centre francophone du Grand Toronto est la porte d’entrée pour les francophones qui vivent à Toronto ou s’y installent. Il offre des services variés à l’ensemble de la communauté francophone. Services offerts:

  • Soins de santé primaire: offre des soins de santé primaires
  • Santé mentale : offre des services en santé mentale et de conseils
  • Enfance et Famille : accompagne les enfants et familles
  • Intégration et Établissement : offre des services aux nouveaux arrivants à
  • Toronto Aide Juridique: offre aux personnes à faible revenu l’accès à des services juridiques
  • Employabilité : accompagne les chercheurs d’emploi

The Centre Francophone du Grand Toronto is the main gateway for francophones living in or coming to settle in Toronto. The Centre offers a variety of services to the entire francophone community. Services offered:

  • Health Services: primary health care
  • Mental health: mental health services and counselling
  • Childhood and Family Services: support to families and children Integration and settlement: services to newcomers in Toronto
  • Legal aid: provides low-income individuals with access to legal services
  • Employability: assistance to job seekers

Visit The Centre Francophone du Grand Toronto’s website for more information.

Resources: Employment Services

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 559713

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 813 3522 7084

College Boreal

Le Collège Boréal est un carrefour éducationnel, culturel et communautaire innovateur desservant la population francophone de l’Ontario. Son but est de produire une main-d’oeuvre bilingue hautement qualifiée, engagée dans les communautés d’expression française et contribuant à la vitalité économique, sociale et culturelle de la province et du pays. Le Collège Boréal reconnait que poursuivre des études c’est une décision personnelle et chaque situation est unique. Pour ces raisons, Boréal vous offre de nombreux programmes et modes de livraison qui répondent à vos besoins de formation. Temps plein, temps partiel, en ligne ou en personne, Boréal est ici pour vous!

Visit College Boreal’s website for more information.

Resources: Bridging Program Supply Chain and Logistics, Settlement Services, Employment Supports

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 886 7882 1507

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 886 7882 1507

Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir

Les écoles catholiques de langue française du Conseil scolaire MonAvenir forment des milieux de vie accueillants, où chaque élève trouve sa place et où les valeurs évangéliques sont vécues et transmises au quotidien. Des travailleuses et des travailleurs d’établissement dans les écoles orientent et accompagnent les élèves et leurs familles en les aidant à se familiariser avec la vie canadienne et à s’intégrer à leur nouveau milieu.

  • Rencontres individuelles avec les élèves et leurs familles;
  • Orientation des élèves et leurs parents pour s’adapter au système scolaire ontarien et à la vie au Canada;
  • Ateliers d’information destinés aux parents, tuteurs ou tutrices;
  • Aide dans l’interprétation culturelle pour les parents et le personnel des écoles;
  • Référence des familles nouvellement arrivées vers les différents services d’établissement qui existent dans la communauté.

The French-language Catholic schools of the Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir are welcoming environments where all students find their place and where the Gospel values are experienced and conveyed each and every day. Settlement workers are in our schools to orient and accompany students and their family by helping them to become better acquainted to life in Canada and to integrate into their new environment.

  • One on one meetings with students and their family;
  • Student and parents orientation in order to adapt to the Ontario education system and to Canadian life;
  • Informational workshops for parents and mentors;
  • Assistance in cultural understandings for parents and school staff;
  • Referral of newly arrived families to the various settlement services that are available in the community.

Visit Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir’s website for more information.

Resources: Program Details

Email: commentaires@cscmonavenir.ca

Entité 3

L’Entité 3 (anciennement nommée Reflet Salvéo) est fondée officiellement le 3 mars 2011 par le ministère des Soins de la Santé et des Soins de longue durée. Elle constitue l’une des six Entités de planification des services de santé en français de l’Ontario. L’Entité 3 a pour mission de conseiller les autorités du système de santé et appuyer les fournisseurs de services pour planifier et mettre en place des services de santé en français, tout en engageant les communautés francophones pour tenir compte de leurs besoins.

Entité 3 (formerly known as Reflet Salvéo) was founded on March 3 2011 by the Ministry of Health and Long-term Care. It is one of the six French Language Health Services Planning Entities of Ontario. Entité 3’s mission is to advise health system authorities by reflecting the needs of Francophone communities through community engagement, and support service providers through planning and implementing health services in French.

Visit Entité 3’s website for more information.

Email: info@entite3.ca

Phone number: 1-581-998-4231

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

FrancoQueer

FrancoQueer est l’association des personnes gaies, lesbiennes, bisexuelles, bispirituelles, transsexuelles, transgenres, en questionnement, queer, intersexuées, asexuelles et leurs alliés (LGBTQIA+) francophones à Toronto et en Ontario. Fondée en 2006 et dûment enregistrée en tant qu’organisme sans but lucratif en Ontario, FrancoQueer est la seule association par et pour les LGBTQIA+ francophones de la province. Grâce à son programme d’établissement et d’intégration «Carrefour des Immigrants FrancoQueer» (CIF), notre organisation offre à ses clients des services d’établissement et d’intégration individuels, ainsi qu’une gamme d’activités de groupe accessibles au public allant des ateliers et webinaires aux groupes de discussion et de besoins des nouveaux arrivants francophones LGBTQIA en Ontario. FrancoQueer offre également des services indirects et de la formation aux partenaires communautaires. Bien qu’ils soient généralement offerts en personne, tous les services et événements sont actuellement offerts en ligne jusqu’à nouvel ordre afin de se conformer aux règlements sanitaires en vigueur en Ontario.

FrancoQueer is the association of gay, lesbian, bisexual, two-spirit, transsexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual and their allies (LGBTQIA+) Francophone people in Toronto and Ontario. Founded in 2006 and officially registered as a non-profit organization in Ontario, FrancoQueer is the first association by and for LGBTQIA+ Francophones in the province. Through its settlement and integration program “Carrefour des Immigrants FrancoQueer” (CIF), our organization offers individual settlement and integration services to our clients, along with an array of publicly-accessible group activities ranging from workshops and webinars to discussion and support groups targeting the needs of francophone LGBTQIA newcomers in Ontario. FrancoQueer also offers indirect services and training to community partners. While usually offered in person, all services and events are currently held online until further notice in order to comply with the sanitary regulations currently in Ontario.

Visit FrancoQueer’s website for more information.

Resources: FrancoQueer Brochure

Email: info@francoqueer.ca or cif@francoqueer.ca

Phone number: 647-709-2600

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Maison D’hébergement Pour Femmes Francophones

Le projet de l’Immigration vers l’Intégration vise à accompagner les femmes immigrantes et réfugiées dans leur processus d’intégration et d’autonomisation avec une programmation adossée exclusivement à la disponibilité des femmes pour mieux répondre à leur besoin. Il leur offre une programmation qui les informe et les oriente sur leurs droits, devoirs et les ressources communautaires. Le projet, en plus d’un accompagnement individualisé, offre des activités pour mieux les connecter aux ressources, et des activités pour leur procurer le soutien et les outils dont elles ont besoin pour une intégration réussie et une participation active dans la communauté. Les activités sont organisées sous forme d’atelier, de forum de discussion ou cercle de conversation selon la nature. Les services d’accompagnement personnalisé sont offerts en personne ou à distance en toute confidentialité.

Visit Maison D’hébergement Pour Femmes Francophones’s website for more information.

Resources: Programme femmes immigrantes et réfugiées

Email: info.projet-ircc@lamaison-toronto.org

Phone number: 416-562-6640

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 852256

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 994 9358 7174

Oasis Centre des Femmes

Services et programmes aux femmes

En français aux femmes de 16 ans et plus.

Programme Femmes immigrantes et refugiées:

  • Soutien et accompagnement aux femmes francophones nouvelles arrivantes dans leur processus d’établissement. Services individuels et de groupe

Counseling:

  • Soutien et accompagnement individuels aux femmes victimes ou survivantes de violences dans leur processus de reprise de pouvoir et contrôle sur leur vie.

Programme des Agentes de Soutien à la Cour de la Famille:

  • Services de soutien et accompagnement pour femmes francophones victimes de violence familiale engagées dans les procédures de la Cour de la famille.

Programme ‘’Investir dans l’avenir des Femmes ‘’Élan:

  • Offre de services adaptés aux femmes francophones à la recherche d’emploi et le retour à la vie dynamique

Programme de Liaison Communautaire Prévention et Sensibilisation:

  • Vise à éduquer et sensibiliser la communauté à la violence faite aux femmes pour une prise de conscience et un engagement dans la prévention.

Programme d’Appui transitoire et soutien au logement:

  • Aux femmes victimes de violences et leurs enfants en voie de s’en sortir.

Tremplin:

  • Programme de soutien à la sécurité économique des femmes

La ligne Fem’aide: 1-877-336-2433

  • Service d’écoute téléphonique en français aux femmes. Disponible 24/7 dans le Centre-Sud de l’Ontario

Visit Oasis Centre des Femme’s website for more information.

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Phone number: 416-591-6565

Société Économique de l’Ontario

Un leader dans l’espace économique de l’Ontario. Ayant débuté ses activités en 2001, RDÉE Ontario est devenu en Octobre 2017 La Société Économique de l’Ontario (SÉO). La SÉO est un réseau provincial qui, avec son équipe de professionnels, fait preuve d’innovation dans le développement économique, l’entrepreneuriat, l’employabilité et l’immigration. La SÉO assure la pleine participation de tous les acteurs du milieu économique francophone et bilingue à la prospérité de l’Ontario et du Canada. Nous offrons une aide à la recherche d’emploi, des programmes d’emploi et des programmes d’entrepreneuriat par téléphone, en présentiel et en ligne.

Leader in the Francophone and bilingual economic sector. Established in 2001, RDÉE Ontario became the Société Économique de l’Ontario (SÉO) in October 2017. The SEO is a provincial network with a professional team that takes an innovative approach to economic development, entrepreneurship, employability and immigration. SÉO engages all of the French and bilingual community’s stakeholders in fostering the prosperity of Ontario and Canada. We are delivering job search support, employment and entrepreneurship programs by phone, in-person and online.

Visit Société Économique de l’Ontario’s website for more information.

Resources: Réussir son parcours vers l’emploi, Entreprenuriat, SEO Resources

Email: cngoyi-musempele@seo-ont.ca or https://seo-ont.ca/contact

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Canada Revenue Agency

Canada Revenue Agency offers the following programs:

Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP)
Do you need help with your tax return?  If you have a modest income and a simple tax situation, volunteers at a free tax clinic may be able to complete your tax return for you.  A free tax clinic is a place where eligible people can get their tax returns done for free by volunteers.  These tax clinics are hosted by community organizations across Canada through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) and the Income Tax Assistance – Volunteer Program in Quebec.

Outreach Program 

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Outreach Program can help make sure your clients are getting the benefits and credits they are entitled to.  Our products are tailored to the vulnerable segments of Canada’s population.  They provide information about the benefits and credits they could get, how to apply for them, and how to continue getting them

Visit Canada Revenue Agency’s website for more information.

Resources: Newcomers to Canada, Tax Supports

Individual Income Tax Enquiries 1-800-959-8281

Benefit Enquiries 1-800-387-1193

Business Enquiries 1-800-959-5525

COVID-19 Related Benefits 1-833-966-2099

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): Cra2021@

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Webex Event – password (if required): Cra2021@

Elections Ontario

Elections Ontario is a non-partisan office of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario responsible for administering provincial elections in Ontario. We are committed to making voting easy and accessible for all electors, and maintaining the integrity, security and transparency of the electoral process. During a general election, we mail information in English and French about where and when to vote to every home in Ontario. This information is also available in more than 30 other languages on our website. When you go to vote, you can ask for instructions on how to vote in more than 30 languages.

Visit Elections Ontario’s website for more information.

Resources: Information for a new Canadian citizen, Ontario’s eRegistration, Work in a provincial election

Email: Outreach@elections.on.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Teams Event

Legislative Assembly of Ontario

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario is made up of members of provincial Parliament (MPPs) who are elected by Ontarians to represent them and their constituencies. The Legislative Assembly works best when you get involved. Discover the many ways to get engaged with your provincial parliament from:

  • Watching parliament in action
  • Connecting to your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP)
  • Learning about the Legislative Process
  • Participating in a tour

Visit Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s website for more information.

Email: tourbookings@ola.org

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Teams Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Teams Event

Ministry of Transportation

Road Safety is important. Worldwide, traffic injuries are responsible for 1.35 million deaths each year and it is the number one cause of death for children and young adults, aged five to 29 yrs[1].  In Ontario, driving is a privilege. This privilege carries with it, the obligation to obey all traffic laws and regulations for your safety, and the safety of all road users.

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) offers support to newcomer groups and organizations working with newcomers in Ontario. Public outreach and education advisors are available to

  • Provide road safety presentations
  • Advise road safety committees, and
  • Support road safety campaigns and initiatives.

Visit the Ministry of Transportation’s website for more information.

Resources: Road safety in Ontario, ServiceOntario.ca, DriveTest.ca

Email: Lisa.Thompson2@ontario.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): toronto

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 938 4484 5418 – password: 7125405

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): toronto

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 976 9605 4852 – password: 8160510

Black Creek Community Health Centre

Black Creek Community Health Centre (BCCHC) has been working in the community for 30 years. At BCCHC they plan and deliver programs that are responsive, as well as accessible to their diverse community. As a Community Health Centre, they envision a healthy, resilient and empowered community where people are engaged and support one another. To achieve this vision, BCCHC activates their mission to engage with individuals, families and organizations to deliver comprehensive health services and programs that enhance community health and wellbeing. BCCHC has a demonstrated history working with families, youth, seniors, newcomers and those facing the most barriers to accessing care. Free Newcomer programs and services offered at BCCHC include:

  • English Conversation Circle program (Spanish)
  • Prenatal Groups
  • Drop in programs
  • Seniors groups
  • Forms clinic- support with filling out different types of forms
  • Translation services
  • Health Care and Mental Health Services
  • Francophone services
  • Exercise Groups
  • Harm Reductions Supplies
  • COVID Support: Food Supports, Access to PPE, COVID-19 Support line, access to COVID-19 testing and vaccine clinics in hotspots

Visit Black Creek Community Health Centre’s website for more information.

Resources: Drop-in, Pop-up COVID-19 Clinic, Prenatal Care

Phone number: 416-249-8000 ext. 2291

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 971 5242 0614

Community Family Services of Ontario

Community Family Services of Ontario (CFSO) helps build a safe and harmonious community by providing professional counselling, settlement, disabilities, and special needs services to individuals and families in need. To serve the community during the pandemic, CFSO has introduced the following special services via phone and teleservice:

  • We are offering quick access counselling to frontline health workers and their families, as well as individuals affected by anxiety and tension within the family due to the pandemic.
  • We also support permanent residents, convention refugees, student visa and work permit holders, with EI/CRB/income support applications. Call 416-979-8299 Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for service in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. Services are free and confidential.

Visit Community Family Services of Ontario’s website for more information.

Email: info@cfso.care

Phone number: 416-979-8299

Twitter, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Google Meet Event

Or join by telephone: 289-316-8876 – access code: 504 502 938#

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Google Meet Event

Or join by telephone: 226-315-3917 – access code: 546 187 908#

Davenport-Pert Neighbourhood and Community Health Centre

Davenport-Perth Neighbourhood and Community Health Centre (DPNCHC) is a multi-service agency located in Toronto’s West End. We provide programs and services to community residents to assist them to stay healthy, develop leadership skills, build relationships, and improve their living conditions and prospects for the future. Program and services include settlement support for newcomers of all immigration statuses; crisis counselling to support low-income residents, literacy classes, Early Years programs for children aged zero to six, youth programs for youth between six and 24, senior programs for 55+, and health services with a dedicated team of physicians, nurse practitioners, counsellor/therapists, registered nurses, and a community dietitian who work together to provide dependable medical care. Due to COVID19, the Centre has made some changes in program delivery.

Visit Davenport-Pert Neighbourhood and Community Health Centre’s website for more information.

Resources: Settlement Services 

Email: info@dpnchc.ca

Phone number: 416-656-8025

Twitter, Instagram

Madison Community Services – RISE Program

Recovery during Immigration and Settlement (RISE) program at Madison Community Services functions to support newcomers during their settlement experience. Founded in the 1970s to serve psychiatric patients being discharged from Toronto hospitals, Madison exists to support the independence, health, recovery and community integration of persons with mental health challenges. The RISE program understands that newcomers face barriers and difficulties during their settlement into Canadian society due to the challenges of finding a job, being away from family, learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. RISE provides a range of community-based holistic supports and services to clients to encourage a positive settlement experience that promotes autonomy, health and a sense of belonging in their new communities. We offer support through individual case management, information sessions and social recreation activities. *NOTE: Due to provincial restrictions brought on by COVID-19, some of our programs have been modified to be offered virtually.

Visit Madison Community Services’ website for more information.

Email: rise@madisoncs.org 

Phone number: 416-977-1333 ext. 108

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

May 25, 2021 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 120784 – access code: 811 0136 0338

Session 2

May 25, 2021 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 120784 – access code: 811 0136 0338

Toronto New Life Wellness Place

Toronto New Life Wellness Place provides multicultural and multilingual therapeutic services for people seeking mental health and wellness support, with no waiting list. Services are available through video or telephone, or safely in-person at the Finch office. Their caring, professional practitioners bring a wealth of talent and experience to the Wellness Place. Formal evaluation and assessment services are available, and clients can receive counselling in English, French, Arabic, Bengali, Filipino/Tagalog, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean, Persian/Farsi, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, and more. We can help with:

  • Stress, anxiety, depression
  • Loss, grief
  • Family issues
  • Anger management (English and Spanish groups)
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Identifying & building personal strengths
  • Managing transitions

Contact us to help you feel better and live your best life!

Visit Toronto New Life Wellness Place’s website for more information.

Resources: Programs and Services

Email: info@newlifeplace.ca

Phone number: 647-340-LIFE (5433)

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Trillium Gift of Life Network

Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN), part of Ontario Health, is the Government of Ontario agency responsible for planning, promoting, coordinating and supporting organ and tissue donation and transplantation across the province. More than 1,500 Ontarians are waiting for a life-saving transplant. More than 90 per cent of Ontarians are in favour of organ donation, however, only 35 per cent have registered. Anyone 16 years of age or older with an Ontario Health Card can register consent as an organ donor at www.beadonor.ca. One organ donor can save up to eight lives. Register to save lives.

Visit Trillium Gift of Life Network’s website for more information.

Resources: Organ and Tissue Donations

Email: Contact Us

Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre

Since 1976, Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre’s (TCFNCC) work has been guided by the use of our good minds to work for peace, harmony and friendship. TCFNCC serves everyone in the family, honouring each stage of life, from before birth and onward with the goal of improving the quality of life of our families, by nurturing the body, mind, emotions and spirit. In this way, they are healing ourselves and helping each other. TCFNCC extends the invitation to work alongside people of four colours, to strengthen our collective capacity and understanding of what it means to maintain the safety and wellbeing of our communities as a whole.

TCFNCC is one of many Aboriginal service providers in the Greater Toronto Area that work together to address the social, health, education, economic and cultural needs of the Toronto urban Aboriginal population. They are located in downtown Toronto and on an annual basis interact with more than 175,000 clients made up of youth, adults, seniors and families who were established in the community or are in transition. The team and clientele come from various First Nation home communities within Ontario, throughout the country and from other points across Turtle Island.

Visit Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre’s website for more information.

Email: strategyplanner@councilfire.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 977 8245 0175

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 977 8245 0175

Circles for Reconciliation

The aim of Circles for Reconciliation is to establish trusting, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples as part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. They bring five Indigenous and five non-Indigenous people together in virtual talking circles on a weekly basis for ten weeks. Two trained facilitators guide discussions on themes that include:

  • Dispelling Misconceptions about Indigenous People
  • Newcomers and Indigenous Peoples
  • Psychological & Intergenerational Impacts of Residential Schools
  • The Indian Act
  • The Pass System
  • The Sixties Scoop
  • The Justice System
  • The Meaning of Land

Circles for Reconciliation offers opportunities for sharing and for creating relationships built on “mutual recognition, mutual respect, sharing and mutual responsibility” (TRC Call to Action #46).

Visit Circles for Reconciliation’s website for more information.

Email: torontocoordinator@circlesforreconciliation.ca or torontorecruiter@circlesforreconciliation.ca

Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services

Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services facilitates access to a wide variety of programs and services to newcomers and refugees virtually, over the phone, and in-person in more than 180 languages. They offer services for all ages, LGBTQ+ and non-status populations.

The organization provides information about rights and entitlements for new residents of Ontario; helps fill out forms and applications including study and work permits, permanent residence and citizenship applications; connects clients with social assistance, legal aid, subsidized housing, employment agencies, and social and recreational programs; and offers primary health care services and language interpreting is provided at no cost to the client.

Visit Access Alliance’s website for more information.

Resources: Program Calendar, Settlement Services Brochure, Remote Interpretation Ontario Multilingual Information eXchange

Email: gvanzaghi@accessalliance.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 375 2970 – access code: 657 3424 3650

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 375 2970 – access code: 619 6442 7968

Arab Community Centre of Toronto

The Arab Community Centre of Toronto provides a wide range of services and supports to help newcomers to settle and adjust to their new life in Toronto. Services offered are free of charge and include

  • Information and orientation to life in Toronto and help in accessing the heath, housing, education, and legal systems.
  • Employment Services to help newcomers find a job related to their field of study.
  • Community Connections activities to help newcomers make friends and engage in their local community.
  • Translation and Interpretation Services
  • And many more.

Visit Arab Community Centre of Toronto’s website for more information.

Email: info@acctonline.ca

Phone number: 416-231-7746

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647-375-2970 – access code: 862 1500 1150

Achēv

Formerly the Centre for Education & Training, Achēv is a not-for-profit, community-based organization that delivers employment, youth, newcomer and language services. They also work collaboratively with their employer and community partners to ensure they have the tools and capacity to support others. Achēv is committed to making a positive difference in the diverse communities we serve. Achēv offers assistance and access to a wide range of services to help newcomers in Canada, from education and training, immigration, employment, health, housing, legal, financial, social and recreational services. Through high-quality programs and personalized services, Achēv supports career development, language education and settlement success in our communities. They serve Brampton, Mississauga, Oakville, Pickering, Richmond Hill, and Toronto communities.

Visit Achēv’s website for more information.

Resources: Employment Services, Foreign Credential Recognition Loans

Email: donmillses@achev.ca

Phone number: 416-444-8744 ext. 5309

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 879 8336 0785

Catholic Crosscultural Services

Catholic Crosscultural Services (CCS) is a national non-profit organization, based in the Greater Toronto Area. CCS aims to empower immigrants and refugees of all religions, ethnicities, countries of origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, or political affiliation to develop the skills and acquire the Through providing linguistically-appropriate assistance and culturally-sensitive support and CCS delivers programs and services in thirty languages to address these gaps, assisting clients to confidently navigate the labour market, school and health care systems. CCS also provides LINC, ELT, EAP, Family settlement, finance literacy, LGBTQ+ services, women and seniors’ wellness services and mental health supportive counselling.

Visit Catholic Crosscultural Services’ website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 932 0824 2376

Centre for Immigrant and Community Services

As an agency that is committed to empowering newcomers in settling and integrating as contributing members of Canadian society through diverse, professional, and innovative services, CICS proudly serves clients who came to Canada from all parts of the world and from all walks of life for over 50 years. They come to us looking for information and services with regard to education, employment, housing, financial support, health care, support for the children, youth, and seniors in their family, networking opportunities, and generally a place to help them adapt to their new environment and continue to grow as full persons.

In coping well with the ever-changing COVID 19 situation, we have transferred most of our services online. Group activities, events and individual counselling are available through a variety of online platforms. We also provide emergency household food security support to residents in the Scarborough North neighbourhood and assist seniors in need with daily essential grocery and meal delivery.

Visit Centre of Immigrant and Community Services’ website for more information.

Resources: Programs, Services and Contacts

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

May 25, 2021 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Session 2

May 25, 2021 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

COSTI

Meeting the needs of newcomers for almost 70 years, COSTI is a community-based multicultural agency providing English language training, employment, settlement, family and individual counselling and health and wellness services, to all immigrant communities and individuals in need of assistance. Services are offered in more than 60 languages. Each year, more than 39,000 individuals receive assistance through a wide variety of programs including specialized employment and skills training; housing support for individuals and families looking for permanent housing or facing eviction; seniors’ and women’s programs; and translation/interpretation services. COSTI provides specialized employment services to internationally trained individuals, as well as information and referral, employment assessment and counselling, work placement, job search training, and youth employment services.

Visit COSTI’s website for more information.

Resources: LINC Flyer, CELPIP Gateway, Employment

Email: admin@costi.org

Phone number: 416-658-1600

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – access code: 293 871 0624

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – access code: 293 871 0624

CultureLink Settlement and Community Services

CultureLink is a settlement and community organization with more than 30 years of experience in developing and delivering services to meet the needs of diverse communities. Passionate about providing innovative services, CultureLink adapts to changes and create new programs that best respond to and address their clients’ specific needs. Their team of more than 70 staff members, speaking more than 30 languages, is dedicated, knowledgeable, and multicultural. CutlureLink serves between 10,000 and 12,000 participants on average each year and provides a wide range of settlement and community programs from children to seniors. They assist newcomers looking for employment, programs to connect with the local community, help families navigate the school system, and provide youth with the skills necessary for bright and successful futures. CultureLink supports refugees and bring together new and established Canadians. All of our physical offices will remain closed until further notice.

Visit CultureLink’s website for more information.

Resources: Upcoming Events, Newcomer Mental Health Program, Settlement in the Community

Email: reception@culturelink.ca

Phone number: 416-588-6288

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25  from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 819 8561 2230

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 819 8561 2230

JIAS Toronto

JIAS (Jewish Immigrant Aid Services) Toronto was founded almost 100 years ago to support Jewish refugees fleeing persecution.  Today, we are a community and government funded settlement agency with the mission to welcome, support, and integrate diverse immigrants and refugees to build a strong, inclusive Canada.

JIAS Toronto provides services, programs, referrals and supports that empower newcomers towards self-reliance.  JIAS runs two LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomer to Canada) Schools in Toronto and York Region.  We work with each client to create a settlement plan and offer a broad range of programs and workshops to help newcomers navigate Canadian systems, rebuild their social and professional networks, and find authentic entry points to community life and Canadian society.

Visit JIAS Toronto’s website for more information.

Email: info@jiastoronto.org

Phone number: 416-630-6481

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – access code: 881 7022 8015 – password (if required): 138636

Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto

Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto (MNLCT) provides caring and professional support to help immigrants and refugees live, work, learn, and play in Ontario. Services are currently online or by phone.

  • Information and orientation to life in Ontario, and connections to government and community resources
  • Language instruction: LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), LIGHTS (Language Instruction Giving Hope to Trauma Survivors)
  • Mental health and wellness counselling for individuals and families
  • Job readiness support: HOPES (Helping Our Newcomers Prepare for Employment Success), She-Covery Response: Building Skills for Work
  • Career Bridging Programs for Internationally Trained Professionals: Media, Marketing, & Communications (BEMC), Mental Health (BREM)
  • Counter human trafficking case management and counselling

Contact our friendly staff to get help with your immediate or long-term goals.

Visit Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto’s website for more information.

Resources: Newcomer Day Resources

Email: info@mnlct.org

Phone number: 647-776-2057

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

New Circles Community Services

New Circles Community Services is a community-based charity that provides free clothing for you and your family. They also offer employment training and settlement support for newcomers, refugees and others living on low incomes in Toronto. Sign up for our free online employment training programs in Home/Family & Child Support, Retail & Customer Service or Business Office Skills. Volunteer and placement opportunities are available.

Visit New Circles Community Services’ website for more information.

Resources: Gently Loved Outfits (Clothing Bank), Retail and Customer Service Skills ProgramBusiness Office Skills Program

Email: alberto@newcircles.ca

Phone number: 416-422-2591 ext. 206

Virtual Meet and Greet
Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – access code: 840 0473 6717

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – access code: 840 0473 6717

Newcomer Network (The People’s Church)

Newcomer Network is a diverse and welcoming community that seeks to provide Compassion, Connection, and Community for newcomers to Canada. They offer practical support and programs to assist newcomers in their settlement and integration into Canadian society. Their hope is for newcomers to be welcomed and find a place of belonging. Based out of The Peoples Church, Newcomers Network also offers friendship and connection opportunities within a vibrant faith community. Programs include ESL classes, ESL conversation circles, Employment Mentoring, Settlement Support, Connection Events, City Hosting, International Student Ministry, Cultural Fellowships, ESL Bible Studies, & Family/Community Support. All programs are currently online.

Visit Newcomer Network’s website for more information.

Email: newcomersn@thepeopleschurch.ca

Phone number: 416-222-3341 ext. 175

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 864225

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 835 1924 5609

Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI)

To help in the settlement process OCASI,  through its family of websites– Settlement.Org/Etablissement.Org, WelcomeOntario.ca/AccueilOntario.Ca, NewYouth.ca /NouveauxJeunes.ca and CitizenshipCounts.ca/ DeviensCitoyen.ca–provides newcomers with relevant, comprehensive, up-to-date and reliable information they can trust to help them settle in Ontario.

Visit their websites to find:

  • Information about living in your community
  • Settlement services close to home
  • Information in different languages
  • Resources for youth
  • Help with your citizenship test
  • Answer to all your immigration, settlement and citizenship questions

They are here to help you! If you have any questions, please visit Settlement.Org’s discussion forum.

Visit OCASI’s website for more information.

Resources: New to Ontario 

Email: Contact Us

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 823 5166 8977

Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services

Polycultural Immigrant Community Services has been a longstanding organization that serves communities in many languages across their five locations within the GTA. They offer various programs, from language training, services for youth, seniors, and refugees, crisis counselling, employment services and settlement counselling for newcomers to Canada. They aim to meet the needs of the diverse communities we serve. All of their services have been adapted to be delivered online as a result of COVID-19. Polycultural is a call away; call them at any of the numbers provided, a warm welcome awaits you.

Visit Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services’ website for more information.

Resources: Office Locations

Email: info@polycultural.org

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 937 4684 9439

Refugee Sponsorship Training Program

The Refugee Sponsorship Training Program provides training and support to Canadian refugee sponsorship groups, Sponsorship Agreement Holders and sponsored refugees.

Visit Refugee Sponsorship Training Program’s website for more information.

Resources: Bulletin, Trainers, Monthly Webinar Schedule

Email: https://www.rstp.ca/en/contact-us/ 

Phone number: 416-290-1700 or 1-877-290-1701

Twitter, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 936 4733 4961

Scadding Court Community Centre

Recognizing the challenges of being in a new country, Scadding Court Community Centre offers:

  • Newcomer Services – Providing assistance with settlement needs including housing, filing taxes, Citizenship applications, and information about starting a life in Canada.
  • Newcomer Entrepreneurship Hub – free program offers training with industry experts, mentorship, networking, market-testing opportunities and wrap-around services to support aspiring newcomer entrepreneurs.
  • Newcomer Youth Program – Newcomer youth aged 13-17 learn about Canadian culture through a variety of activities.

All programs and services are currently virtual.

Visit Scadding Court Community Centre’s website for more information.

Email:  Taxes/Settlement Supports, Entrepreneurship, Newcomer Youth

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event 

The Neighbourhood Group

The Neighbourhood Group, comprised of Central Neighbourhood House, Neighbourhood Link Support Services and St Stephen’s Community House assists people across Toronto at every stage of their lives. They offer services to newcomers, job seekers, seniors, children, youth and the homeless as well as conflict resolution, harm reduction and childcare programs. The Neighbourhood Group delivers specialty programming for newcomers in the areas of youth, employment, English classes, counselling, settlement support, free tax clinics, and assistance for pregnant and new mothers. Most programs are being offered virtually.

Visit The Neighbourhood Group and St. Stephen’s Community House’s websites for more information.

Resources: Jobhouse Employment Opportunities

Email: info@tngcs.org or info@sschto.ca 

Phone number: 416-691-7407 or 416-925-4363 or 416-925-2103 ext. 7777

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 724977

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 820 2039 8104

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – password (if required): 724977

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 820 2039 8104

TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization

TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization is a community-based, multi-service agency providing a wide range of community services since 1985. Their programs, services and activities support low-income, marginalized and newcomer communities across Toronto in more than 50 languages and at no cost. Their central locations are in Thorncliffe Park, Flemingdon Park, St. James Town and Crescent Town. You can also find them at various satellite locations in the city, including schools and City of Toronto facilities, and now virtually. TNO’s programs are aimed to reach infants to seniors and include various Settlement Services and programs, Housing, Employment services including mentoring and Youth Jobs Connections, Trades Connect, Health Access Thorncliffe Park, VAW programs, women’s entrepreneur programs, TNO food collaborative as well as an EarlyON centre and a Youth centre.

Visit TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization’s website for more information.

Resources: Employment Services, Family Programs, Newcomer Supports, Health Services

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – access code: 843 457 4280

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – access code: 843 457 4280

University Settlement

University Settlement’s major services include settlement services and programs for newcomer adults and youth, senior services, and community development. With a multilingual and culturally diverse staff, the Settlement and Social Services Department is able to provide services to a diverse group of newcomers and community members. They currently offer virtual workshops which cater to the community need, such as English conversation circles, Pre-Employment Training Programs, Volunteer Training program as well as information sessions on Financial Literacy and Health and Wellness topics. We also offer virtual one-to-one support in various languages to support our diverse clients.

Visit University Settlement’s website for more information.

To speak with a Counsellor in English/Mandarin: Call 416-408-4058 or email Mia.Sun@universitysettlement.ca

To speak with a Counsellor in English/Farsi: Call 416-218-8990 or email Manijeh.Mehdinia@universitysettlement.ca

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 558 0588 – access code: 991 5236 7512

WoodGreen Community Services

WoodGreen is one of the largest social service organizations in Toronto. Together they help people find housing, live independently, secure employment, access childcare and mental health supports. They have professionals dedicated to helping newcomers including newcomer youth settle in Canada. This includes helping newcomers and their families learn about life in Canada, acquire language skills, engage in meaningful mentorships, enter the job market, access parenting supports and programs and services for youth and children, engage in volunteering activities, education, training, and receive financial counselling and other supports to thrive in Canada. Currently, their services are offered remotely and over the phone and are available in different languages.

Visit WoodGreen’s website for more information.

Resources: Newcomer Programs and Services, WoodGreen Program Resources

Email: newcomerinfo@woodgreen.org

Phone number: 416-465-6185

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Teams Event 

Or join by telephone: 647-484-6017 – access code: 929 907 893

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Teams Event 

Or join by telephone: 647-484-6017 – access code: 929 907 893

YMCA GTA – Immigrant Services

Newcomer Youth Leadership Development (NYLD)

Are you a newcomer between the ages of 13-24 and are a Permanent Resident or a Refugee? NYLD’s youth program offers a safe, supportive, and fun environment where you can hang out with new friends, learn about Canada, build new skills, and participate in leadership opportunities. You can also gain meaningful volunteer hours and get academic support through our homework clubs.

Newcomer Information Centre (NIC)

The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre (NIC) is a welcoming place for immigrants starting their new lives in Canada. The program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and has been serving the community for more than 20 years as the first stop for many newcomers coming to Toronto. Their services ensure that newcomers to Canada receive relevant and up-to-date information to make informed decisions and to achieve their personal settlement goals. They strive to help immigrants adapt and integrate into Canadian society smoothly and successfully. They offer one-on-one live chats providing customized settlement plans; information and referrals on government benefits, immigration and citizenship, employment, education and training, credential assessment, language training, health, housing and much more; and various in-house and guest-speakers.

Language Assessment and Referral Centre (CLARS)

Learn and improve English and French language skills at no cost. Now Online! The YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Language Assessment and Referral Centre offers free English and French language assessments to immigrants to Canada, along with subsequent referrals to government-funded language training courses and programs.

Visit YMCA GTA – Immigrant Services’ website for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet (Employment Services)

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – password (if required): YMCA2021@@

Virtual Meet and Greet (Immigrant Services)

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event – passcode (if required): Nyld2020##

Session 2

v from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event – passcode (if required): Nyld2020##

Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter

Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter opened in 1983 by a group of community members who saw a need for a safe place for women and children fleeing violence and abuse. Ernestine’s provides a home for the women and their children who stay with from six months to over one year – until appropriate housing is found for them. During their stay, they are provided with all of the necessities they might need (new bedding, clothes, school supplies, toiletries, baby supplies, prescriptions not covered by OHIP, loaded Presto cards, and anything else they might need). Other services and programs include:

Visit Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter’s website for more information.

Admin Line: 416-743-1733

Crisis Line: 416-746-3701

After Breast Cancer

Surviving breast cancer can take a lot out of a woman—including their self-esteem and sense of inner beauty and worth. There are very few programs that help women after they’ve gotten through cancer treatment. after BREAST CANCER is there for breast cancer graduates who cannot afford to meet basic needs or purchase a proper mastectomy bra and breast prosthesis after mastectomy or lumpectomy surgery at no cost.

ABC Thrive Program:

Breast Prosthesis/Es (every two years)

  • One Breast Prosthesis (single mastectomy)
  • Two Breast Protheses (double mastectomy)

Mastectomy Bras or Camisoles (yearly)

  • Each year, women on the ABC Thrive Program will receive up to three mastectomy bras.

Visit After Breast Cancer’s website for more information.

Resources: Programs

Email: event@afterbreastcancer.ca

Phone number: 647-324-9217

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn

Rexdale Women’s Centre

Rexdale Women’s Centre provides services for immigrant, refugee and newcomer women and their families in the Greater Toronto Area. For more than 40 years, Rexdale Women’s Centre has helped more than 160,000 clients to learn English, to find employment, to find housing, to improve their parenting skills, to overcome intimate partner violence, to integrate and settle in the community, to overcome isolation and to become fully participating members in the Canadian Society. All Services are currently online or over the phone. Services provided are Settlement Services, Employment Services, Welcoming Communities Services, English Language Services, Children and Youth Services, Senior Services, Social Services and much more.

Visit Rexdale Women’s Centre’s website for more information.

Phone number: 416-745-0062

Instagram, Facebook, YouTube

Times Change Women’s Employment Service

Times Change offers free employment counselling for unemployed women in the Toronto area. Providing a safe and supportive environment, women are encouraged to explore new career directions, find meaningful and sustainable employment, all under the guidance of professional employment counsellors. In addition, Times Change offers computer training and opportunities for educational upgrading for new immigrant women.

Visit Time Change Women’s Employment Service’s website for more information.

Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn

Virtual Meet and Greet:

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event 

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 833 3521 4109

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647 374 4685 – access code: 893 2824 5893

Working Women Community Centre

Working Women Community Centre has been making a difference in the lives of Toronto’s immigrant women and their families since 1974. For more than four decades they have worked to provide access to the right programs and services that build healthy communities.

  • Newcomer Settlement and Integration: Housing, PR, Citizenship application, Work permit, Employment, Child care, Legal service, Government services (Social Insurance Number, Health Card, etc.)
  • Women Support Services: 1:1 Counselling (Arabic, Farsi, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish & English)
  • Education and Learning: LINC (Language Instructions for Newcomers to Canada), HIPPY (Home instructions for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), On Your Mark-Tutoring and Language program
  • Civic Engagement: Arts Program, Community Development Program, Food Security

Visit Working Women Community Centre’s website for more information.

Resources: Engagement Activities

Email: admin@workingwomencc.org

Phone number: 416-532-2824

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647-374-4685 – access code: 464 014 8558

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Zoom Event

Or join by telephone: 647-374-4685 – access code: 464 014 8558

Everyone aged 18+ is now eligible to book a vaccination appointment at a City of Toronto immunization clinic.

Visit the City’s COVID-19: Vaccines page to learn more about how to get vaccinated, why you should get vaccinated and other vaccine resources.

Visit the City’s COVID-19: Reduce Virus Spread page to learn more about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Children’s Services

Toronto Children’s Services promotes access to high quality early learning and child care services and works closely with community to develop a coordinated system that meets the diverse needs of Toronto families and children. The division:

  • Assists families to access licensed child care, before and after school care, and EarlyON Child and Family programs.
  • Helps families with the cost of licensed child care and provides support for children with extra support needs in licensed child care.
  • Manages the operation of City-owned child care centres and Toronto Home Child Care.
  • Manages EarlyON Child and Family Centres which offer free programs to parents/caregivers and their children from birth to six years of age.

Their vision is that all families in Toronto benefit from a range of services that promote healthy child development and family well-being.

Visit Children’s Services’ webpage for more information.

Resources: EarlyON Child and Family Centre Activities, Licensed Childcare, Free Subsidy – What You Should Know

Email: Shelley.McKeen-Weaver@toronto.ca 

City Clerk’s

The City Clerk’s Office has three key areas of focus. They work to elect the local government, make the government work, and promote open government. Their primary services include administering the municipal election, managing the decision making process by supporting Council and committee meetings, recording and maintaining Council decisions and other proceedings, making information accessible to the public while protecting privacy, providing leadership in matters of protocol, providing administrative support to Members of Council and their staff and providing services related to vital life events.

Visit the City Clerk’s webpage for more information.

Resources: My Local Government – It’s For Me, Toronto Elections Education, Public Appointments, Getting Married, Serving/Selling Alcohol

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): Welcome! – access code: 133 654 4124

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Webex Event – password (if required): Welcome! – access code: 133 291 1205

Environment and Energy

The Environment & Energy Division develops and implements innovative policies and programs and inspires the community to address climate change. Together they will make Toronto one of the most environmentally sustainable cities in the world.

Live Green Toronto – Offers tips, tools and resources to help you green your home, community or business.

Climate, Energy & Resilience – TransformTO, Toronto’s climate action strategy and related policies and programs.

TransformTO Climate Action – Learn about Toronto’s ambitious climate action strategy and how you can contribute to a cleaner and greener city.

Grants and Incentives – Looking for environmental grants and incentives to green your home, business or community? These are some of the many programs you can take advantage of to start living green!

Rethink Food – Eating green is eating clean!! Follow the Get Growing Guide and you can create your own garden or create gardens in a community setting to grow local food. As wells as exploring the variety of delicious recipes that focus on these local foods.

Smart Commute – Looking for cheap and sustainable ways to get around the city? Check out all the different methods of commuting available within the city.

Visit Environment and Energy’s webpage for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): Toronto 1

Or join by telephone: 416-915-6530 – access code: 133 700 6962

Parks, Forestry and Recreation

The City of Toronto, Parks, Forestry and Recreation offers a variety of unique programs and outdoor activities for everyone. Most of their programs are free or lower cost programs. The City’s Welcome Policy provides a fee subsidy to help individuals and families with low-income who live in Toronto access City-operated recreation programs. Within the Community Development Unit they have 10 supervised Enhanced Youth Spaces for young people. The Youth Spaces have stuff like Wi-Fi, computers, recording studios, photography labs, and study spaces. Within the unit they also have 31 Youth Outreach Workers across the City who are equipped with tons of resources and ready to assist youth. The City has Adapted and Integrated staff who make programming inclusive to all participants. For individuals who may require some additional assistance to participate in standard recreational programs, an inclusive recreation program staff (integration staff) is available to assist participants.

Visit Parks, Forestry and Recreation’s webpage for more information.

Resources: Youth Recreation

Email: zjallou@toronto.ca

Phone number: 416-984-4512

Solid Waste

Solid Waste Management Services (SWMS) is responsible for collecting, transporting, processing, composting and disposing of municipal and some private sector waste. This includes garbage, Blue Bin recyclables, Green Bin organics, yard waste, oversized and metal items, as well as household hazardous waste and electronic waste.

Visit Solid Waste’s webpage for more information.

Resources: What Goes in the Blue Bin?

Email: Erendira.cervantes-altamirano@toronto.ca

Phone number: 416-392-4663

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event

Toronto Employment and Social Services

Employment & Social Services provides employment supports, financial benefits and social supports to people living in Toronto. Staff provide a range of services to residents, including helping people:

  • find a job or the training they need to find work
  • access financial benefits available through the Ontario Works program
  • connect to health, housing, child care and other social services

Employment & Social Services’ vision is to strengthen the social and economic well-being of Torontonians in their communities. By providing employment services, financial benefits and social supports, the division works to make that vision a reality. The division is committed to engaging and working closely with clients, employers, community partners and staff to ensure they are meeting the needs of the community.

For information and to apply for financial assistance from Ontario Works, please visit: www.toronto.ca/humanservices or call 416-338-8888 Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

As part of the City’s COVID-19 response we have modified our services. All 15 of our offices are providing services by phone Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

In addition to phone services, three Employment & Social Services offices are open for in-person service for people without phone/online access, between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Only in exceptional circumstances will clients be seen in-person. If clients do attend an office, they will be screened for travel, COVID-19 symptoms or exposure prior to being admitted.

Visit Toronto Employment and Social Services’ webpage for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): TESSNewcomer

Or join by telephone: 416-915-6530 – access code: 177 485 0313 – password: 83776392

Session 2:

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Webex Event – password (if required): TESSNewcomer

Or join by telephone: 416-915-6530 – access code: 177 922 5450 – password: 83776392

Toronto Public Library

Toronto Public Library is the world’s busiest urban public library system, with more than 46 million annual visits to our branches and online. We support newcomers with:

Visit Toronto Public Library’s website for more information.

Email: answerline@tpl.ca or Subscribe to Email Updates

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event

Or join by telephone: 416-216-5643 – access code: 173 026 6153

Transportation Services

Transportation Services plans, constructs and manages the transportation infrastructure within the public right-of-way, including the public realm, sidewalks and roads.

The Division handles:

The Division’s vision is to provide a safe, efficient, and effective transportation system that serves our residents, businesses, and visitors in an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable manner.

Visit Transportation Services’ webpage for more information.

Resources: Safety Guide for Pedestrians, Safety Guide for School Children, Safety Guide for Cyclists, Safety Guide for Older Adults, Vision Zero: Education Campaigns & Outreach

Twitter: @TO_Transport, @TO_Cycling, @TO_WinterOps, @StART_Toronto, @TO_Gardiner_LS, @TO_MainRoads, @TO_AllenRoad, @TO_DVP

Instagram: TO_Transportation, StART_Toronto, TO_Cycling

Facebook, YouTube

Economic Development and Culture – Toronto History Museums and Heritage Services

Toronto History Museums are a collection of 10 historic sites owned and operated by the City of Toronto with the mission to collect, preserve, research, interpret, exhibit, and enhance the understanding of Toronto’s diverse stories through engaging and exciting experiences. Our Stories Toronto’s many pasts, presents and futures meet at our museums. The histories you’ll experience here are not tales penned by a select few. They are stories written and told by the many who shape them. They are as diverse as the perspectives and experiences of our people – and we are many. See amazing and appalling things. Taste sweet and bitter flavours. Hear laughter and lament. Touch the silky and the prickly edges of our history. Meet us at the intersection of countless viewpoints. Leave us inspired about this place we call Toronto. Awakenings is a series of virtual art projects created within Toronto History Museums. Utilizing storytelling while operating under the principles of anti-oppression, anti-colonialism, anti-racism, sustainability, and advocacy, Awakenings aims to connect us, paving a new way forward through art, creativity, culture and innovation.

Visit Toronto History Museums and Heritage Services’ webpage for more information.

Resources: Toronto History Museums Volunteer – City of Toronto, Apply to be a VolunteerVirtual Farmers’ Market – Montgomery’s INNovators (montgomerysinnovators.ca), HerStory – City of Toronto, Fine Art & Artifact Collection – City of Toronto

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): MKmEEMqA474

Or join by telephone: 416-915-6530 – access code: 133 262 8154

Economic Development and Culture – Tourism Services

There are plenty of local City of Toronto initiatives to enjoy that encourage residents to support local businesses and artists, and explore the city’s neighbourhoods to help rebuild the social and economic fabric of Toronto. Torontonians can safely participate in the following activities with the people they live with by following COVID-19 safety measures to help reduce the virus spread. Learn about what to expect and what is required when being in public places. Click the link in each program title below for more information.

ActiveTO: Use ActiveTO’s expanded cycling network, closed major roads and quiet streets to explore your city.
Awakenings: A series of art projects created within Toronto History Museums by Black, Indigenous and artists of colour.
MakeArtTO: Join virtual art classes and workshops, and enjoy virtual book clubs.

Visit Culture and Tourism Services’ webpage for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event

Or join by telephone: 416-915-6530 – access code: 177 691 5465

Enterprise Toronto

Enterprise Toronto is a one-stop source for entrepreneurs who are looking to start and grow a small business and supports small businesses and start-up companies from all sectors across the city. We offer a full spectrum of services including Business Plan Review Consultations, Networking Events, Entrepreneur Training, Mentorship and Grant programs. We also provide information on programs and services available in Toronto, from incubators, accelerators, community organizations and other levels of government.

Visit Enterprise Toronto’s webpage for more information.

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event – password (if required): GjESb23k9m4

Toronto Water

Drinking Water Treatment and Supply

  • Toronto Water ensures that residents, businesses and visitors have access to clean, safe drinking water through a complex water treatment process and continuous testing. Toronto drinking water always meets or exceeds the provincial quality requirements. It is cheaper, tested more frequently, and creates less waste than bottled water.
  • Although water produced at the City’s drinking water treatment plants does not contain lead, lead can be found in: water service pipes in homes built before the mid-1950s; solder used to join pipes together before 1990; and leaded-brass fixtures, such as faucets and valves. We help homeowners find out if they have lead pipes, and offer programs to help replace them.
  • The City of Toronto’s on-line NO WATER MAP displays information about areas in Toronto currently with no water service because of maintenance work or water main breaks.

Wastewater Collection and Treatment

  • Toronto Water collects and treats wastewater 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via 3730 km of sanitary sewers, 507,548 sewer service connections and 87 wastewater pumping stations into four wastewater treatment plants. Toronto Water’s 5 steps to treating wastewater ensures water quality in Toronto is the very best in the world.
  • Programs such as what not to flush or pour down our drains assists residents with tip sheets on items that can or cannot be placed/flushed in your home toilet to limit any damages to your home plumbing system
  • One of Toronto Waters many programs include Grease Traps, a helpful resource for restaurant owners/operators protect properties, businesses, public health and the environment.

Storm Water Management

  • Toronto Water has implemented many projects to help manage storm water and improve the water quality in local waterways. Residents can access information on programming such as downspout disconnect and basement flooding to assist with managing the storm water around their homes.
  • The City of Toronto provides residents with a financial rebate for installing sump pump and backwater valves in your home to avoid costly basement flooding o Storm water management also includes City of Toronto team of Municipal Bylaw inspectors enforcing codes relevant to industries that pollute our waterways and keep our water the safest and best in the world.
  • MyWater Toronto provides residents with a view of your total and average water use by day, week, month or year in easy to read graph or chart form. This tool provides residents by looking for leaks and becoming more aware of your water use habits. You can access MYWater Toronto using your Toronto Water account number and your personalised login detail.

Resources: Basement Flooding and Protection Program, Drinking Water- Fluoride and Lead, What Not To Flush, How to Waste Less Water

Visit Toronto Water’s webpage for more information.

Phone number: 311

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Webex Event

311 Toronto

311 is a simple, three-digit phone number that you can use to get information about City of Toronto services or programs, or to make a request for service. Residents, visitors and businesses no longer have to try to find the right division or individual at the City to get information or help. Callers can get information about everything from Toronto Public Library hours of operation, to reporting a missed garbage pick-up, to finding out where the closest flu clinic is located. Customer service representatives are available to answer your questions or fill a service request 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Visit 311 Toronto’s website for more information.

Email: 311@toronto.ca

Twitter

Virtual Meet and Greet

Session 1

Tuesday, May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join the session 1 online Webex Event

Session 2

Tuesday, May 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join the session 2 online Webex Event