New to Canada? You’re Welcome at the Y
Discover Support, Belonging, and Community
Starting a new life in Canada can feel overwhelming − but you don’t have to do it alone. At YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, we welcome newcomers with open arms and caring support. For eligible clients, we offer free programs and services to help you settle, build confidence, and feel connected in your new community.
From learning English and understanding how things work in Canada, to supporting your children and youth, we’re here to help you ignite your goals and see your potential grow.
Our programs are designed to spark new connections, help you shine in everyday life, and feel a true sense of belonging. At the Y, we believe we are greater together − and with the right support, you can thrive and feel at home here.
We have Support Services in the following regions: London, Sarnia and Windsor.
Find your community below to explore the services available near you.
London
New to Canada services available in London, Ontario
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is an English as a second language program for adult immigrants who are permanent residents and have not yet received Canadian Citizenship. The Language Skills Program teaches listening, speaking, reading, and writing based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
The Newcomer Settlement Program provides Refugee Claimants, International Students, Canadians not born in Canada, and newcomers with temporary status with information, referral, and supports on various settlement and integration issues including immigration, government forms and services, community and social services, education, housing, employment and getting connected to the community.
Newcomer Youth programs include YMAP, a YMCA Integration & Leadership Program - Mapping the Way for Newcomer Youth - assisting the integration of newcomer families and students into the education system and community.
Community Connections programming connects you with social and professional networks, community organizations, resources, events, and activities. Connecting with other newcomers and Canadians can help you feel engaged, welcomed and help you gain independence in your new community.
The Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) program provides high‑quality, short‑term care for children aged 6 months to 6 years while their parents attend our Language Skills Program at the same location.
Sarnia
New to Canada services available in Sarnia, Ontario
Orientation services for immigrants who are Permanent Residents or Convention Refugees provide help and information in regards to immigration, government forms and services, community and social services, education, housing, employment and getting connected with others in the community.
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is an English as a second language program for adult immigrants who are permanent residents and have not yet received Canadian Citizenship. The Language Skills Program teaches listening, speaking, reading, and writing based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
Newcomer Youth programs include YMAP, a YMCA Integration & Leadership Program - Mapping the Way for Newcomer Youth - assisting the integration of newcomer families and students into the education system and community.
Settlement Workers in schools assists the integration of newcomer families and students into the education system and community. This program is a collaboration between the Lambton Kent District School Board and St. Clair Catholic District School Board.
The Newcomer Settlement Program provides Refugee Claimants, International Students, Canadians not born in Canada, and newcomers with temporary status with information, referral, and supports on various settlement and integration issues including immigration, government forms and services, community and social services, education, housing, employment and getting connected to the community.
Community Connections programming connects you with social and professional networks, community organizations, resources, events, and activities. Connecting with other newcomers and Canadians can help you feel engaged, welcomed and help you gain independence in your new community.
Windsor
New to Canada services available in Windsor, Ontario
Orientation services for immigrants who are Permanent Residents or Convention Refugees provide help and information in regards to immigration, government forms and services, community and social services, education, housing, employment and getting connected with others in the community.
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is an English as a second language program for adult immigrants who are permanent residents and have not yet received Canadian Citizenship. The Language Skills Program teaches listening, speaking, reading, and writing based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.
The Newcomer Settlement Program provides Refugee Claimants, International Students, Canadians not born in Canada, and newcomers with temporary status with information, referral, and supports on various settlement and integration issues including immigration, government forms and services, community and social services, education, housing, employment and getting connected to the community.
Community Connections programming connects you with social and professional networks, community organizations, resources, events, and activities. Connecting with other newcomers and Canadians can help you feel engaged, welcomed and help you gain independence in your new community.
The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) is a recognized computer-delivered English language assessment tool. CELPIP is ideal for providing proof of English language proficiency for immigration to Canada, Canadian citizenship, employment, admission to various post-secondary programs, or for membership to various professional associations.
The Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) program provides high‑quality, short‑term care for children aged 6 months to 6 years while their parents attend our Language Skills Program at the same location.
WE Value Partnership (Windsor) The WE Value Partnership is a community-driven initiative that focuses on newcomer success. Learn more.
