Settlement agencies (sometimes called the Welcome Centres) provide immigrant services for newcomers to Canada. These government funded agencies offer resources to help you adjust to your new life in Canada. Settlement services are often free and they are always confidential. Connecting with a settlement agency early on can be very beneficial. Many settlement agencies have staff or volunteers who speak languages other than English. If you go to a settlement agency and they do not have the service or language they need, the staff will help you find another agency that does.
Some agencies have certain eligibility requirements that you have to meet to use their services. Some agencies are only funded to assist Government Assisted Refugees. Others serve all newcomers, but some of the specific programs are only open to convention refugees and permanent residents. It is always a good idea to contact the agency first to clarify if you can use their services and possibly make an appointment before your visit. Some of the services provided by Settlement agencies include:
There are several videos in this section that explain what a settlement agency does. You can also use the links provided to locate an agency near you.