Our settlement workers are here to provide one-on-one support, answer your questions and help you find the resources you need in your community. Through the help of community partnerships, we work with you to build your network and further enhance your experience in transitioning into a new culture. We will start the settlement process with a one-on-one meeting to assess your needs and create your own settlement plan to help you and your family achieve your goals.

Here are some ways we can help:

• Complete forms, applications and other documents
• Navigate local systems such as health care and public school, recreation services, education, income assistance, taxes and more
• Find programs and services within the community
• Provide referrals to programs and services including; counselling, employment services, language assessments, children and youth services, legal issues and refugee other specialized services
• Communicate with employers, landlords, social and government services, legal services and more
• Learn about Canadian life and culture
• Assistance and referral for licensing and accreditation

For more information please fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page or call 519-371-9222

Our group information sessions help you learn about important settlement topics and about life in Canada and your community. Speakers from community and government agencies are invited to deliver up to date information about their services.

Examples of topics that could be covered:

• Banking in Canada
• Getting ready for school
• Protecting yourself from fraud and scams
• Canadian laws and police
• Housing
• Voting in an election
• Filing your income taxes
• Adjusting to winter
• Parenting

Citizenship Classes

Citizenship classes are open to families and individuals. Each week will be a different theme and discussions will encourage participation. It is a continuous intake so persons can join at any point.

Classes are offered twice per week (afternoon and evening).

Weekly themes on “Discover Canada”

• Week 1 – Canada, who are you?
• Week 2 – Here’s a map, let’s explore!
• Week 3 – Hop on the train: journey through the past and present
• Week 4 – Who is in charge of Canada?
• Week 5 – The wheels of justice
• Week 6 – Canada: “With great freedom comes great responsibility”

For more information please fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page or call 519-371-9222

Community Connections’ activities help you make friends and engage in the local community. We can:

• Help you connect with your community: opportunities to volunteer, participate in local cultural festivals, One World Day, bringing together newcomers, indigenous peoples and Canadians.
• Collaborate with existing employment service providers to assist with workplace integration including: pre-employment training ie health and safety/WHMIS, workplace communication, and understanding Canadian workplace culture.

English Conversation Circles/Café

Practice your English Language Skills in an informal setting to support your language development.

English Conversation Circles also provide an opportunity to meet other newcomers and to make new friends.

Conversation Circles are offered offered across Grey Bruce.

These are open to families and individuals with no assessment required. Each week will be a different theme and discussions will encourage participation. Conversation Circles are available on a continuous intake, you may join at any point.

Visit our workshop page for more Community Connection activities and events.

If you are interested in learning or improving your English to prepare for citizenship, education or employment, you can take part in our language classes. To participate in these classes, you must complete a Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment. Book an assessment with Achēv Language Assessment Services, or speak with your Settlement Worker for assistance.

Our certified instructors use everyday tasks and real-world examples in our LINC language training program, to teach reading, writing, listening and speaking skills within the framework of the Canadian Language Benchmarks. Levels taught up to CLB 6.

Please speak to a Settlement Worker to get started. Fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page or call 519-371-9222

Language Instruction for Newcomers (LINC) – Certificates for Citizenship Application provided

• Afternoon and Evening classes available
• Placement assessment is required
• New students are welcomed anytime

Providing service for newcomer children and youth throughout schools across Grey & Bruce Counties. The main objective of the program is to assist children, youth and families with integrating into their school and community.

Here’s a few services a SWIS worker can help with:

• Assist with the school registration process
• Assist High School students with understanding curriculum and timetables
• Inform students of extra-curricular activities and encourage participation in community groups and clubs etc.
• Provide conversation circles to strengthen English speaking skills
• Support cultural awareness activities
• and much more

Speak with a Settlement Worker in Schools today. Call 519-371-9222 or email settlement@osgb.ymca.ca

Pour des services d’établissement en français et/ou la formation linguistique en français, veuillez contacter : PRAIDA ou rechercher: Gouvernement du Canada

English Translation: If you wish to access French language training and/or French settlement services, please contact: PRAIDA or search: Government of Canada