Welcome to Canada: Connecting to settlement services and community supports and programs

Connect with your local settlement services provider

One of the first things you should do after you arrive in Canada is reach out to your local settlement services organization. They are part of a national network of 550 settlement services provider organizations that receive funding from the Government of Canada.

They can help you

• identify how to find a place to live, including housing supports in your city or town
• learn English or French
• find a job or volunteer position for work experience
• enrol you or your children in school or day care
• find out how to get your job credentials recognized
• fill out forms and applications for different services
• match you with volunteers or mentors to help you feel more at home
• get referrals to other services, such as
  • legal help
  • health care and wellness
  • community organizations and activities

Find free newcomer services near you (opens in a new tab) 

Ukrainian Canadian organizations

Ukrainian Canadian organizations, such as the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, are helping people like you feel at home in Canada. With branches across the country, their volunteers can help connect you with other newcomers from Ukraine, as well as other important resources in your new community. Some branches even have places where you can pick up essential items, such as clothing, personal supplies and small household goods.

Programs and services offered by cities and towns

Some cities and towns are having information sessions so you and your family can learn more about important services and programs, such as

• health care
• financial assistance
• housing
• education
• child care

They also offer programs for children, teenagers and adults that anyone can join, such as

• sports
• music
• visual arts
• camps (summer and other times during the year)

Some of these programs are free; others have a registration fee. Contact your city or town if you want more information on the programs that are available for you and your family.

Getting support from your community

Settlement services provider organizations are just one place to get help. Libraries have many resources and supports to help you feel at home, and most of their services are free.

Many public libraries offer not only book borrowing, but also things like

• computer and Internet access
• music, videos or video games
• passes to local museums and attractions
• classes and workshops
• ways to connect you with other people in your neighbourhood
• help finding jobs and improving your English or French
• settlement advice

To get a library card, you just need to show proof of your address. This can be a

• utility bill
• bank statement
• cellphone bill
• credit card bill
• lease

Community centres are another important resource. They often have things like

• sports for both adults and children
• gyms or other fitness activities
• social events
• child care
• arts and culture programs

Places of worship can also help you meet people who share similar faiths. Canadians gather in churches, synagogues, temples, mosques and private residences to practise their faith.