Canadian Newcomers Find Welcome

by Ontario Communications
Categories: Divisional News
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Statistics Canada reported that more than a million people immigrated to Canada between 2006-2011, making the total foreign-born population nearly 6.8 million and accounting for over 20 percent of the country’s total population.

Upon arrival, these newcomers face obstacles that prevent societal integration, including language, culture and legal barriers, and so The Salvation Army steps in.

Atlantic Refugee and Immigrant Services (ARIS)

The Salvation Army’s Atlantic Refugee and Immigration Services (ARIS) in Spryfield, N.S., offers new immigrants assistance with Permanent Resident Card renewals, applications for Canadian citizenship, and other immigration forms, particularly those involved with family reunifications.

“When newcomers arrive in Canada everything is strange and different,” says Marie Kettle, ARIS program coordinator. “If they have family members left behind, it is a great worry and stress and makes it harder for them to settle and integrate. It is so rewarding to see families reunited, and to see spouses arrive with a new child that the other parent has not yet even met.”

The program offers serves approximately 30 clients per month.

Toronto Immigrant and Refugee Services

At Harbour Light Ministries in Toronto, Ont., The Salvation Army has committed over 20 years of service to newcomers through its Immigrant and Refugee Services (IRS) program.

“We have earned the respect not only from the people we help, but also from the other agencies and government programs and associations,” said Angelica Correa, IRS coordinator.

Toronto has one of the highest numbers of immigrants with over 2.5 million, which accounts for 46 percent of the city’s population, according to Statistics Canada.

Current services provided through IRS include help with the technical immigration process, employment, housing, community referrals, English as a Second Language (ESL) education and emotional support.

IRS helps around 700 families each year.

Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre

Winnipeg is home to 147,295 immigrants—nearly 21 percent of its total population. In 2011 alone, Statistics Canada reported 45,300 newcomers settled in the area. The Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre (BMFRC)—established in 2012—is geared specifically toward the immigrant population.

The Centre serves 300 people each week. Resources include employment assistance, food distribution, and family and youth oriented programs.

“Newcomers to Canada arrive with large hopes of a better life,” said Major Corinne Cameron, BMFRC executive director. “Many have come through significant trauma, and all have left some form of family behind. They proceed through a two-week entry program provided by the province, and then they are on their own. Our programs offer them a sense of community, a support network and basic requirements for life.”

Montréal Immigrant and Refugee Services

In Montréal,  23 percent of the area’s total population are immigrants. After realizing a need, The Salvation Army Montréal Citadel Corps/church launched its own IRS program.

“This program offers a holistic range of services to immigrants and refugees.” said Louise Fernandez, IRS program coordinator.

IRS offers its clients guidance in immigration matters, housing, transition to Canadian society, and emotional struggles. People are often referred to the program through the corps/church food bank.

“For many we’re their first family [in Canada],” Fernandez said. “The Salvation Army offers them hope. We welcome people no matter what their age group, race, origin, country, immigration status; we don’t care.”

By Vivian Gatica –