Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly | |
Immigration Partnership News | |
We Continue to Build Community Through Immigration | |
So long for now, and MUCHAS GRACIAS, Alejandra! | |
Alejandra Amezquita has been the Communications Coordinator for the Immigration Partnership for this last four years, and has shared this and other amazing resources with many of you in that time. Tomorrow marks the final day of her time on the Immigration Partnership staff team. We have nothing but words of gratitude for all of her contributions during the time she has been serving the community. We not only appreciate the hard worker she is, but the amazing human being. HUGE THANKS, Alejandra - you have truly made a difference to so many people and it has been a privilege to have you on the Immigration Partnership team. We are sad to see you go, but wish you all the best in the bright future ahead. | |
Immigrant and Refugee talent in Waterloo Region we invite you to meet with over 25 employers to learn about employment opportunities in the region | |
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On March 2, the Immigration Partnership is hosting a networking event for Immigrant and Refugee talent to connect with employers. Your next employment opportunity may be here!
We invite you to meet with over 25 employers to learn about employment opportunities in the Waterloo Region.
Bring your resume!
This event is FREE and includes light refreshments. Registration is not required.
This networking event is part of the 13th Annual Global Skills Conference hosted by the KW Multicultural Centre.
The event will take place at the Crowne Plaza Ballroom, Second floor, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm.
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International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination | |
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On this International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination, in partnership with the Kitchener Waterloo Multicultural Centre, Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership is hosting an event to showcase the breadth of the anti-racism work that needs your support and your voice to amplify it.
We aim to foster an unprejudiced, equitable, and anti-discriminatory culture. There is a strong need to call on each and every one of us to actively dismantle racial prejudice, intolerant attitudes, and systemic barriers.
Don't miss our speaker and interactive segments which include:
10:00 am - Welcome and Territorial Acknowledgment by Brittney Emslie
10:15 am - Continuing to Move the Anti-Racism Dial at Work By Evelyn Amponsah
12:15 pm - Lunch
1:00 pm - Spotlight on Indigenous Reconciliation Work in Newcomer Serving Agencies by Brittney Emslie
Please note that there will be a questionnaire on the registration page. Registration is now open: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination Tickets, Tue, 21 Mar 2023 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite
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We had an incredible morning at our Immigration Forum this past Wednesday, March 22, 2023, bringing together community leaders to discuss important topics related to how the Region of Waterloo is preparing for future regional population growth and increased immigration.
We had some outstanding speakers, including Karen Redman, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, who strongly believes that immigration has been and will continue to be a key driver of the Region of Waterloo and its success. She spoke about the steps we are taking as a region to put us in a stronger position to continue to thrive.
We also had a panel discussion focused on a key issue for the community and immigrants: health care. Tony LaMantia, President and CEO of Waterloo EDC, and Ron Gagnon, President and CEO of Grand River Hospital spoke about the roadmap for improving the healthcare infrastructure, its impact on the community and the economy.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, our speakers and guests who helped make the event a resounding success.
This was part one of this two-part series, with part two coming soon in May. Stay tuned!
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Building a Community Committed to Providing Equitable Interpretation Services to Newcomers to Canada
"Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" is a great tool to help organizations implement interpretation services as part of their organizational core.
Download and use the "Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" here: www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/InterpretationChecklist
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For more details on these events and other immigration, anti-racism and community initiatives, follow us on our social media accounts! | |
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Donations are being collected by the Turkish Culture and Folklore Society of Canada, the Grand River Friendship Society and the Turkish Society of Waterloo Region.
They are asking for unused donations of:
- Winter clothing (jackets, coats, boots, hats, gloves, etc.)
- Tents
- Mats and mattresses for tents
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Reusable water bottles
- Flashlights without batteries
- Personal hygiene products
- Canned food and baby formula
Items can be dropped off at four City of Kitchener locations:
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Forest Heights Community Centre, 1700 Queen’s Boulevard (Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
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Centreville-Chicopee Community Centre, 141 Morgan Ave. (Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
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Kitchener Fire Department Headquarters, 270 Strasburg Rd. (Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
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Kitchener Market, 300 King Street East (Saturdays, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.)
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Muslim Social Services of Waterloo Region is offering free counseling services to people in the region who are devastated by the suffering or loss of loved ones due to the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria.
https://muslimsocialserviceskw.org/services-3 Or call 4399-772-519. Interns: 2707
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Community Partner Highlights
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Immigrant Services and Interpretation Open
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The KW Multicultural Centre (KWMC) is offering in-person services at 715 Fischer Hallman Rd, Suite 401, Kitchener.
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YMCA Immigrant Services is providing in-person and remote settlement services.
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The YMCA Language Assessment Centre is doing online and in-person language assessments.
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In Kitchener-Waterloo and area, KWMC is providing interpretation services remotely (phone or videoconferencing) in over 50 languages. Visit https://kwmulticultural.ca/interpreters or email interpreters@kwmc-on.com if you require an interpreter.
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In Cambridge, the YMCA is providing interpretation services (phone or video conferencing) remotely. Languages include: Arabic, Armenian, Farsi, Persian, Dari, Pashto, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish. If you require an interpreter email interpretations@ckw.ymca.ca.
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Reception House Waterloo Region is serving government-assisted refugees in person and remotely. Refugee arrivals are ongoing in Waterloo Region.
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COMPASS Refugee Centre (formerly MCRS) is serving refugee claimants virtually and in person for claim and settlement supports. Virtual Ready Tours in preparation for hearings are now available through COMPASS. They also provide safe, in-office access to virtual hearings for claimants who need I.T. support and confidential space.
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Sanctuary Refugee Health Centre continues to meet the health needs of refugees. Call ahead.
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Carizon’s Newcomer Mental Health and Well-Being Program: A Promise of Partnership is currently offering both online and in-person supports to refugees living in Waterloo Region. For more information on current groups, trauma counselling, supports for connecting to mental health resources and workshops, call 519 743-6333 or email promise@carizon.ca.
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St. Louis LINC and ESL Effective Feb 21: Evening classes will start again at St. Louis Kitchener Main Campus (behind Kitchener City Hall). Classes are offered in-person every Tuesday and Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm. Morning and afternoon classes are offered, both online and in-person. Please contact the YMCA first to get an English Language Assessment and email intake@ytr.ymca.ca to make an appointment.
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Conestoga LINC language classes. Classes are currently held both on campus and online. When you register for class, a LINC technician will meet with you to help you get started.
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15th annual Global Skills Conference
This is a one-day conference for job-ready, Internationally Trained Professionals (ITPs) living in the Waterloo Region. The conference provides participants with resources and information on credential recognition, skill development, professional associations, regulatory bodies, and related professions.
This year’s theme is “Making Connections: How to market yourself and make meaningful career connections”
The Global Skills Conference only happens once a year and it is free of charge to you and includes parking and lunch. I highly recommend you take advantage of this great opportunity.
Registration for the Global Skills Conference is officially open: 2023 Global Skills Conference for Internationally-Trained Professionals Tickets, Thu, Mar 2, 2023 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite
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New in-person and Online English Classes Options Being Offered at St. Louis
Starting today, February 21, there will be new in-person classes, covering CLB 1-7 and Get and Keep the Job.
There will also be English for Personal Support Work - CLB 6/7. These classes will be online:
Feb 21 - June 16
Mon. - Thurs. 12:30 - 3:00
Fri. 12:30 - 2:00
For more information visit: Welcome - St. Louis Adult Learning and Continuing Education (wcdsb.ca)
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Refugee Integration Updates | |
Community members can support Afghan and other refugees arriving in the region in many ways: Providing affordable housing or primary care, making monetary donations to the Immigration Partnership Fund or Reception House Waterloo Region, donating clothing and other items, sponsoring refugee families, supporting family reunification efforts,etc. Visit http://immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/afghanresettlement for more information on the Afghan Resettlement in Waterloo Region! | |
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Fellowship Opportunity for Afghans in Canada: Afghan Challenge Fund Call for Proposals
Deadline to apply is March 15, 2023
The Open Society University Network’s Threatened Scholars Integration Initiative seeks applications for its Afghan Challenge Fund Initiative (ACF), which offers fellowships for newly arrived Afghans in the US and Canada and the United Kingdom whose research, teaching, and public work have placed them in critical danger and whose continued activity is valuable for the future of their country and society.
Applicants must seek out a host institution and host institutions must seek out applicants to apply. Only host/applicant paired applications will be eligible. In addition, applicants and host institutions must currently reside in the US, Canada and the United Kingdom to be eligible to apply.
Afghan Challenge Fund Call for Proposals (opensocietyuniversitynetwork.org)
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Visit www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/ukraine to learn how residents of Waterloo Region can support the Ukrainians coming to Canada. In addition, visitors will find helpful information and tools shared by the federal government specifically for Ukrainian individuals and families such as service access instructions, welcome to Canada checklist, SIN for Newcomers, etc. | |
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Important Notice!
Access to IRCC-funded settlement, employment, language training and community connections services for Ukrainians under the Canada-Ukraine Emergency Travel Authorization (CUAET) is extended until March 31, 2024
For more information you can reach out directly to the KW Multicultural Center and/or YMCA.
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Information and Resources | |
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The Waterloo Region Record – Lyle S. Hallman Foundation Kids to Camp Fund will be accepting applications until March 5!
The Waterloo Region Record - Lyle S. Hallman Foundation's Kids to Camp Fund provides grants to camps enabling children and youth who reside in Waterloo Region (Cambridge, Kitchener, North Dumfries, Waterloo, Wellesley, Wilmot or Woolwich) and are in need of financial assistance to attend.
Camps offer children and youth the opportunity to learn, play and socialize with other children.
Applications will be accepted until March 5, 2023 at 11:59 PM. For more information visit: Kids to Camp Fund — Waterloo Region Community Foundation (wrcf.ca)
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Seniors Community Grant Program Call for Applications Open
This program supports local, not-for-profit community organizations, Indigenous groups, and municipalities to deliver programs and learning opportunities for Ontarians age 55+. Every year, the Ontario government provides hundreds of Seniors Community Grants ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 – funding that allows community groups across the province to offer a wide variety of activities to promote engagement, reduce isolation and promote healthy living.
Applications are open now and will be accepted until 5:00 pm on March 6, 2023
Learn more about eligibility and guidelines on their website.
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2023 Women of Distinction Award
Nominations are now open for the YWCA Cambridge Women of Distinction Awards. Since 1994, the Women of Distinction Gala has been YWCA Cambridge's premier fundraising event, recognizing more than 300 women for their contributions to their communities.
The awards ceremony will take place at Langdon Hall Country House Hotel and Spa on June 14, 2023. Ticket sales will open in early spring. Funds raised from ticket sales and sponsorship go toward community outreach, gender-based violence prevention programs, employment services and advocacy to end gender inequality and gender-based violence.
Nomination deadline for the 2023 award is March 17th.
Learn more about eligibility and guidelines on their website.
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Nominations Open for Senior of the Year in Kitchener and Waterloo
If you know an outstanding Kitchener resident aged 65+, don't miss the opportunity to nominate this special person to be Kitchener’s 2023 Senior of the Year!
The Provincial Senior of the Year award gives each municipality in Ontario the opportunity to honour one outstanding resident aged 65+ from their local community each year. Nomination deadline for the 2023 award is March 31st.
2023 Senior of the Year Award - Kitchener
2023 Senior of the Year Award - Waterloo
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Applications Now Open for Community Grants!
The Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF) is focused on creating sustainable, equitable and thriving communities. They are dedicated to supporting those most affected by the inequities that exist across the region, and to increasing opportunities for people who live and work locally.
Annually, WRCF distributes Community Grants to organizations that are located anywhere in Waterloo Region and provide support to local residents. In 2023, approximately $500,000 is available for organizations that focus on initiatives related to affordable housing and initiatives that have an impact on climate change, where that impact is specifically focused on Waterloo Region. Deadline is April 21, 2023.
Registration: Community Grants — Waterloo Region Community Foundation (wrcf.ca)
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Waterloo's Neighbourhood Matching Fund
The Neighbourhood Matching Fund (NMF) supports projects that help neighbours develop connections, foster a sense of belonging, and create place making. Groups of two or more neighbours may apply for up to $7500 in matched funds to support their idea.
Deadlines to apply for the NMF are: May 31 and October 17, 2023. If you have a great idea that contributes to your community don't miss this opportunity.
Learn more about eligibility and guidelines on their website.
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Guide to Help the Landlord-Tenant Relationship Continue to Improve
Landlords have taken the time and effort to consider best practices to maintain a good relationship with their tenants and help ensure that our community is a home for all.
This toolkit includes information, tools and tips to assist housing providers with eviction prevention efforts. It can also be used to help develop new policies and improve existing practices. is a great set of tools to help you maintain your business and develop a caring and professional relationship with your tenants.
Click here for the Waterloo Region Community Legal Services' Best Practices for Housing Providers of the Waterloo Region Toolkit here.
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CMHC Just Shared Their Newest Housing Rental Update
The annual Rental Market Report provides in-depth analysis and market trends in Canada's major centers. The report uses data from the latest fall Rental Market Survey and the results of the Condominium Apartment Survey results.
You can find the Rental Market Report here.
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IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:
Recruiting of Global Talent
Mar. 1, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will be offering a virtual learning series for employers in Winter 2023. The goal of this 8-week series is to help employers learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs. Each week will feature a new topic and provide employers with an opportunity to ask questions. Employers may choose to attend one or all of the information sessions based on their interest and needs. | |
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Racial Equity Toolkit Webinar
Mar. 2, 2023, 3:00PM - 4:30PM
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The Racial Equity Toolkit was developed by Dominique Samari and Paul Schmitz. It was designed to help backbone staff and partners operationalize racial equity throughout their collective impact work. Through a mix of personal reflection exercises, conversations and activities, this toolkit will help teams explore how focusing on racial equity can advance their strategies, foster understanding, strengthen relationships and support the achievement of their collective goals. | |
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IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:
Work Permits: Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Mar. 8, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will be offering a virtual learning series for employers in Winter 2023. The goal of this 8-week series is to help employers learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs. Each week will feature a new topic and provide employers with an opportunity to ask questions. Employers may choose to attend one or all of the information sessions based on their interest and needs. | |
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Cambridge Newcomer Connections
Kinbridge Community Associations, 200 Christopher Drive, Cambridge
Mar. 11, 2023, 10:30AM - 1:30PM
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Don't miss this free community event where you can learn about what services and programs are available to you as a newcomer. There will be indoor and outdoor activities, information booths, entertainment, food and prizes.
Accommodations and interpretation is available by contacting Yesenia at newcomer@cambridge.ca or at 519-623-1340 Ext. 4426
*Registration is not required but capacity is limited
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IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:
Work Permits: International Mobility Program
Mar. 15, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will be offering a virtual learning series for employers in Winter 2023. The goal of this 8-week series is to help employers learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs. Each week will feature a new topic and provide employers with an opportunity to ask questions. Employers may choose to attend one or all of the information sessions based on their interest and needs. | |
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Workplace Inclusion: A Roadmap for Senior Managers
Mar. 15, 2023, 1:00PM
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Strategic planning is one of the most widely used tools when it comes to EDI. As daunting as the exercise may seem, the key is getting started with the right people and practices. This workshop will examine how to set an EDI transformation process in motion and what research says about practices that can push the needle in favor of minoritized groups.
The speaker will be Michaël Séguin. He currently leads a SSHRC-funded research in partnership with N4 about inclusion in Ontario-based settlement agencies.
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Islamophobia and Anti-Hate Workshops
Mar. 22, 2023, 6:00PM - 8:00PM
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Muslim Social Services of KW in collaboration with the Canadian Council of Muslim Women encourages the community to attend this virtual event on Islamophobia and cyberhate, where a dialogue will be opened between the community and political members on possible solutions to these problems. | |
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Citizenship Support Group
In Person
Classes: Jan. 11 - Mar. 29, 2023
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The YMCA of Three Rivers will be offering in person citizenship support classes to help permanent residents prepare to take the Canadian Citizenship Exam. These classes will cover material that will be on the exam and provide participants with a variety of study materials and practice tests that you can take home to review. If you are interested in registering please fill out this form. | |
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YEAH! Newcomer Youth Group
Jan. 17 - Mar. 6, 2023
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Join Carizon's YEAH! Newcomer Youth Group to support one another and share experiences that matter to you in a safe and encouraging environment. They want to hear what you’re interested in and they will share ideas and resources together to help you reach your goals! Open to high school aged newcomer youth. | |
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International Youth Group
Jan. 19 - Mar. 9, 2023
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Carizon invites newcomers connect with other youth in its in-person group through games, art, play and conversation. They will explore a wide range of issues that are important to you and explore new ways to connect with others! This group is for newcomer youth ages 10-13. | |
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Growing Stronger - Adult Trauma Group
Jan. 19 - Apr. 6, 2023
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Carizon brings a supportive space for newcomer adults with similar experiences to identify what triggers their trauma reactions and practice the skills necessary to cope and feel grounded. Discussion includes effect of trauma on brain and body; self-care; mindfulness; emotion regulation; connecting thoughts and feelings; decision making a coping; planning for the future. | |
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Parents Talk it Through
Jan. 20 - Mar. 10, 2023
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Do you find parenting in a new culture stressful? Are you looking for ways to connect with your child? Join Carizon to Talk it Through with parents just like you where you can learn and share strategies. | |
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Let's Talk Winter Sessions:
Weekly on Wednesdays between
Feb. 1 - Mar. 22, 2023, 4:30PM - 7:30PM
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Let’s Talk is a free program for newcomer youth ages 14 - 21 that focuses on academic and career guidance. Their Winter Sessions will be starting soon. They will take place in the KPL Central Library located in 85 Queen Street North, Kitchener. During this 8-week free program, youth will be connected with various community and career mentors for support and guidance based on their needs and interests. Let's Talk participants will also gain volunteer hours, meet new friends, practice their English, and more as they become empowered to reach their future career and education goals.
Registration is now open for the KWMC Let's Talk program!
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Canada remains strongly committed to humanitarianism from CIC News, Feb. 26, 2023
Niagara Falls facing 'limits' in accommodating influx of asylum seekers, mayor says from CBC, Feb. 26, 2023
IRCC invites Canadians to directly influence future immigration policies and programs from CIC News, Feb. 24, 2023
Canada announces support for Iranian temporary residents from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Newsroom, Feb. 23, 2023
IRCC resuming biometrics collection for people applying for temporary residence from within Canada from CIC News, Feb.23, 2023
Shaping the future of immigration in Canada from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Newsroom, Feb. 23, 2023
Indwell and WRCF forge ahead to increase supportive affordable housing supply from Waterloo Region Community Foundation, Feb. 22, 2023
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