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| Newcomers Settlement Program (NSP) |
The Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration funds the Newcomer Settlement Program (NSP) which supports the early and effective settlement of newcomers to Ontario. The goal of the NSP is to help newcomers fully engage in all aspects of Canadian life ,social, economic, political and cultural -- and to maximize the benefits of their participation and contribution to Canadian society.
To achieve this goal, the NSP focuses on improving the quality and availability of, and access to, services that improve the social and economic situation of newcomers. Of the many settlement services we provide through this program we witnessed the progress of our clients integrating in the Canadian society.
We had a successful collaboration with Toronto District School Board in a training and employment program (Entry to logistics training program). Through our volunteer placement, we managed to train, mentor and help our volunteers gain more hands -on experience to enter the work force or pursue post secondary education. We provide our volunteers full support all through the process and act as their references in Canada when seeking employment.
Several types of workshops are offered; for example one information workshop and one general networking/social/cultural activity is organized per month. Workshop topics include
• Immigration information – family sponsorship; changes in regulations; updates of refugee law; etc.
• Health issues – Services available; system re-structuring; eligibility; good health for newcomers; coping with anxiety, stress, depression, etc. (we have increased our cooperation with the local health care system and have been able to coordinate more home care for Arab seniors).
• Housing – Finding housing; types of assisted housing; landlord-tenant issues, etc.
• Social Services – Exploring the range of social services available for newcomers; eligibility
• Specialized settlement issues – Dealing with family separation; victims of torture and trauma of war in Iraq
• Cross-cultural communication and awareness – What is Canadian culture; how to communicate effectively across cultures; dealing with racism and discrimination
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