New Funding Boosts Pre-Arrival Services for Newcomers at Collège La Cité and Colleges and Institutes Canada
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Enhancing Pre-Arrival Settlement Services
Pre-arrival settlement services are crucial for helping newcomers thrive in Canada. These services equip immigrants with essential information and resources, allowing them to make informed choices and integrate more smoothly into Canadian society and the workforce upon their arrival.
On June 27, 2023, in Ottawa, the Honourable Mona Fortier and Marie-France Lalonde announced a significant investment exceeding $10.5 million. This funding aims to enhance pre-arrival services provided by Collège La Cité and Colleges and Institutes Canada, as part of broader settlement funding initiatives previously announced.
Support for Francophone Newcomers
Collège La Cité’s pre-arrival services cater to Francophone immigrants, providing them with resources to adapt to their communities and integrate into the Canadian economy. By offering online and in-person assistance, these institutions ensure newcomers are well-prepared for the Canadian job market.
Official Statements on the Initiative
“Providing high-quality information to immigrants leads to better decision-making and a smoother transition to Canada. Our investment ensures Collège La Cité can expand its services, offering pre-departure assistance and integration programs. The success of newcomers depends on Canada’s commitment to accessible, state-of-the-art services.” – The Honourable Mona Fortier
“Pre-arrival services are essential for successful integration, enabling newcomers to make early decisions about their lives in Canada. These services expedite newcomers’ contributions to the economy, particularly for the Francophone community, which is vital for Canada’s long-term prosperity.” – Marie-France Lalonde
Recognitions and Achievements
“La Cité actively supports the socio-economic integration of French-speaking immigrants. Our Connexions francophones portal offers a seamless pathway for Francophone newcomers, connecting them to regional partners and employability services. Our virtual job fairs prepare participants for the Canadian job market, ensuring they secure employment quickly upon arrival.” – Lise Bourgeois
“As a pre-arrival service partner since 2007, Planning for Canada has empowered over 59,000 newcomers to make informed decisions, arriving with confidence. Investing in newcomers is an investment in our communities.” – Denise Amyot
Key Points About the Initiative
- On May 11, 2023, a two-year extension of pre-arrival contribution agreements was approved, covering April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2025, with over $60 million allocated to 15 service providers.
- The recent funding announcement is part of a broader investment exceeding $60 million in pre-arrival settlement services to facilitate the economic and social integration of newcomers.
- 15 organizations across Canada and internationally will receive additional funding to enhance pre-arrival services, serving clients in their home countries.
- Canada’s pre-arrival services have been available since 1998, initially for refugees and expanded to other immigrant categories in 2001.
Additional Resources
Media Contacts
For media inquiries:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of pre-arrival services?
Pre-arrival services help newcomers prepare for life in Canada by providing information and support that facilitate smoother integration into society and the workforce.
Who benefits from the new investment in pre-arrival services?
The funding supports organizations like Collège La Cité and Colleges and Institutes Canada, benefiting newcomers, particularly Francophone immigrants, by enhancing their integration into the Canadian economy.
How long have pre-arrival services been available in Canada?
Canada has offered pre-arrival services since 1998, initially to refugees, and expanded these services in 2001 to include other immigrant categories.
