Newcomer Services
Newcomer Centre
Peace and purpose
Shahin adapted to life in Canada through the services at our Newcomer Centre.
“When I first arrived in Canada, I was depressed spending my time every day just staying at home alone. Back in Iran, I was very busy with work, taking care of my family and being with friends. But here, I lost all of it. I almost went back to Iran after one month.”
Shahin’s story is similar to many newcomers. The struggle to adapt and isolation can be overwhelming. But staff at our Newcomer Centre change that. Whether its virtual English classes or events, referrals or help with employment or healthcare, the assistance helps people with the difficult transition to life in Canada.
“I went to the Newcomer Centre as soon as I saw the LINC English class sign. The staff spoke to me in Farsi, helped me register for the classes and gave me good information about living here. I felt at peace for the first time in Canada. The classes are like school and very friendly too. At the Centre, I also join workshops, the Newcomers Café and Farsi chat programs. I volunteer at events, and invite other people I know to come.
“Today my English keeps improving. Recently I felt confident enough to call my son-in-law and speak to him in English. He was so surprised! I am very happy I can do things like go to my doctor or do my shopping independently. Coming to the Newcomer Centre gave me a chance to learn and make friends. It helped me stay in Canada.”
3500+ newcomers transition to life in Canada through English classes, settlement services and employment assistance
Rainbow Connect
Following the Rainbow
Brendalee fled her homeland because of LGBTQ+ persecution
“I’m a proud Black lesbian woman from the Bahamas. My partner and I came to Canada because we were afraid of being outed and the violence we would face. The Bahamas is very religious and doesn’t tolerate LGBTQ+ relationships. Here in Canada, I became an LGBTQ+ refugee and newcomer advocate after going through a challenging refugee process myself.
I started volunteering at different LGBTQ+ and newcomer organizations, and presented at universities, radio shows and at 2SLGBTQ+ conferences. Along the way, I met one of my mentors, Ranjith Kulatilake, who was running a program called Rainbow Connect. That’s where I really found my path.”
Operating in an inclusive, safe space, Rainbow Connect helps LGBTQ+ immigrants and refugees who are struggling to adapt to their new life in Canada. The wide array of programs, including employment services, settlement support, social chats, referrals and advocacy, eases the transition.
“I started volunteering at Rainbow Connect, and was excited to start Peer to Peer Chit Chat, a bi-weekly chat group. At the same time, I started working at the Corner Drop-in as a screener, and later, as a full-time Community Support Worker.
The Neighbourhood Group recognizes the potential and strengths of marginalized people and helps them thrive. I’m delighted to be part of that.”
Nearly 300 LGBTQ+ newcomers adapted to their new lives in Canada through Rainbow Connect
