Fast Facts for Newcomers to British Columbia
Is British Columbia (BC) your destination when you arrive in Canada? This article features some quick facts and tips about settling in British Columbia, and some of the resources you have access to.
Elementary and Secondary School Preparation for Newcomers
In Canada, primary (elementary) and secondary education are managed by each province or territory. Attendance is mandatory for children to receive an education. Many schools have settlement workers to help children and parents who are new to Canada. Ask your school about this if you’re interested.
Being a Newcomer Senior in Canada
Moving to a new country can be challenging for anyone, but it can be even more difficult if you’re an older adult. Moving to a new country can be challenging for anyone, but it can be even more difficult if you’re an older adult. You may experience many different emotions about leaving your home, life, friends and family behind.
Reducing the Barriers: Supports for Young Parents Under One Roof
Pregnancy and parenting are life transitions that can be challenging no matter how old you are. Each situation is different; you may have a lot of support, while others feel overwhelmed and alone. You may be new to Canada or need support from people outside of your immediate family. No matter the situation, some services offer help specifically for young pregnant and parenting youth.
The other reality is that housing costs vary widely from city to city, with the popular gateway urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal being by far the most expensive.
Pre-Arrival Services in Canada: Registering for one or more programs
A new service has been launched across Canada to give newcomers more access to pre-arrival programs! Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), newcomers to Canada can view and register for pre-arrival programs on…
The other reality is that housing costs vary widely from city to city, with the popular gateway urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal being by far the most expensive.
How to Eat Healthy as a Newcomer to Canada
You have decided to start a new life in Canada. When you begin your settlement journey in Canada, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by adjusting to the new culture, environment, and people. Finding a place to live and a good job is usually the priority for many newcomers. Most of the time, healthy eating is something that we tend to neglect. However, it is important to balance your diet with nutritious whole foods.
Welcome to the Prairies, a Land Rooted in Culture
If you are new to Canada, about to move to Canada, or considering starting moving to Canada, take some time out to read about First Nations and the Indigenous people. Their land has welcomed many refugees and immigrants from all over the world. Learning and understanding this history should be your first step in your settlement journey.
Canadian City Spotlight: Ottawa, Ontario
Globally known, Ottawa is the capital of Canada in the province of Ontario. It is a government town. You can’t miss Parliament Hill and many other government institutions situated here. Ottawa is a bilingual city, both English and French; the city is close to the province of Quebec. French is Canada’s second official language.
Tips to Staying Warm During Winter – in Toronto and everywhere else in Canada!
It must be January in Toronto. My neighbor just texted me that he is gleefully flooding his outdoor rink tonight because the projected two-week forecast calls for temperatures averaging minus 10 degrees Celsius. Oh, Canadians love to chat about the weather, don’t we! And soon, you will, too.
Support and First Steps for Newcomers to Nova Scotia
For over 25 years, YMCA Immigrant Services has supported the settlement needs of newcomers in Nova Scotia. We offer programs and services that help newcomers and their families in schools and communities across the province.