Government of Canada:

The Government of Canada provides numerous services for immigrants and supports many organizations across the country which provide important settlement assistance. Some of these services include assisting in employment searches, language classes, educational and housing options, medical services, and understanding local culture and customs.  Usually these services are free to newcomers.  Information on government services can be obtained through the Immigration and Citizenship Canada website.

In addition to the many government-sponsored services, other organizations offer free services to immigrants.

Faith-based Communities:

Woven throughout our Canadian history, faith-based communities have stepped in to help newcomers as they navigate the complexities of their new country.

Free immigrant services are available in many faith-based organizations.  Services may include:  assisting with language classes,  providing furniture for homes, clothing for family members, assisting with child-care, home-cooked meals, transportation, Christmas packages of food and gifts, and various other initiatives.

Public Libraries:

Canadian Libraries have a long history in Canada.  The earliest libraries date back to 1606 and were private book collections that belonged to immigrants from Europe.  Canada’s first publicly funded libraries began in 1883.  Today, public libraries provide free and equitable access to a variety of services to all Canadians.

For newcomers to Canada, libraries are not only a rich source of free information but also a bridge to their local community.  Most public libraries have dedicated resources and staff who can help immigrants find jobs, improve their English, build new skills, access settlement advice, read books in their native language, and connect with others in their neighborhood. You can also find information that is found in the Discover Canada Guide to help you prepare for your Canadian citizenship test.

Service Clubs and Non-Profit Organizations:

Service clubs and non-profit organizations have played an important role in Canada’s long history.  In communities, both urban and rural, these organizations work together to meet the needs of their local community, including the immigrant population. 

On most university campuses, immigrant services are provided through student clubs. Newcomers are welcomed and programs are in place to introduce these students to our Canadian culture. 

Canoo Provides Free Options:

Canoo provides many free options to help newcomers discover the many places to visit in their new country and help them feel at home here.  If you are over 18 and a newcomer to Canada within your first five years as a Permanent Resident, or you have received your Canadian Citizenship less than 12 months ago, you are eligible.  Canoo provides free passes to over 1,400 destinations across Canada.  These include national parks, historic sites, science centres, museums, galleries, performing arts, and more.  You must down-load the Canoo program for these benefits.

Other Discounts for Immigrants:

Other discounts are available to newcomers. There are a number of stores and services that provide discounts such as Adidas, H & M, Uber and Hello Fresh.  Some vehicle dealerships offer a $1,000 bonus toward the purchase or lease of an eligible vehicle. 

Conclusion:

Canadians want to link arms with newcomers so that they can help them succeed.  Their long-term integration contributes to our economy and enriches our culture.

Joy Dirks

Sept. 2022