Government of Canada Enhances Support for Newcomers in Eastern Ontario
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release
Newcomers are vital to Canada’s future and economic recovery post-pandemic. They enrich communities and contribute by creating jobs, caring for loved ones, and supporting local businesses.
August 23, 2022—Cornwall, Ontario—In an effort to assist newcomers in settling in smaller and rural communities, and to access essential services during their first year, an investment of $840,271 was announced by Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. This funding will expand resettlement capacity and settlement services across eastern Ontario, offering more access to case management support for newcomers.
The Conseil Économique et Social d’Ottawa-Carleton (CESOC) also received an additional $605,648 to enhance its Refugee Resettlement Assistance Program. This will enable CESOC to provide essential services to more government-assisted refugees, including Afghan nationals.
Settlement services are crucial for helping newcomers learn the language, find employment, and integrate into Canadian society. Following a call for proposals in August 2021, CESOC’s project was selected to provide additional support for refugees and vulnerable newcomers in eastern Ontario.
This initiative will extend case management services in both English and French in Cornwall and surrounding areas, assisting vulnerable newcomers to access the necessary resources for successful integration. CESOC plays a pivotal role in enhancing support services for refugees, particularly in smaller communities, equipping them with tools for long-term success.
Quotes
“Newcomers and refugees have long been a driving force behind Canada’s society and economy. Our success as a nation depends on organizations like Conseil Économique et Social d’Ottawa-Carleton, which help newcomers learn languages, find work, and thrive in their new communities.”
– Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“CESOC values this funding as a long-standing partner of Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada. It will enable us to continue supporting refugees newly settled in the region. The socio-economic integration of refugees is a shared responsibility between federal authorities and the community.”
– Saint-Phard Désir, Executive Director, Conseil Économique et Social d’Ottawa-Carleton
Quick Facts
- The Resettlement Assistance Program supports government-assisted refugees and other eligible clients across Canada, except Quebec. It provides direct financial support and funds service providers to deliver essential services.
- Financial support includes a one-time start-up allowance and monthly income support, typically provided for up to one year or until clients become self-sufficient.
- Case management offers a comprehensive approach to support high-needs and vulnerable newcomers facing multiple barriers during their initial 12 to 18 months in Canada.
- Case management services involve a detailed needs assessment, personalized support plans, and regular monitoring and referrals.
- CESOC is dedicated to promoting diversity within the francophone community in eastern Ontario, particularly in the Ottawa region.
Associated Links
- Government of Canada invests $35 million to expand settlement services
- Resettlement Assistance Program and case management services
- Resettlement Assistance Program
- Service provider organizations
- How immigration strengthens Canada
Contacts
Contacts for media only
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
aidan.strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What is the Resettlement Assistance Program?
The Resettlement Assistance Program provides financial support and essential services to government-assisted refugees and eligible newcomers, excluding Quebec.
How does case management work for newcomers?
Case management includes a comprehensive assessment and personalized settlement plans, with regular monitoring and support to help newcomers integrate successfully.
What role does CESOC play in newcomer settlement?
CESOC promotes diversity in eastern Ontario’s francophone community and supports refugees’ integration with essential services and community connections.
Why is the investment in settlement services important?
Investing in settlement services ensures newcomers have the resources to integrate, find employment, and contribute to Canada’s society and economy.
How does this funding benefit Afghan nationals?
The additional funding helps CESOC deliver essential services to Afghan nationals, facilitating their smooth transition into Canadian society.
