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Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly

March 13 , 2023

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Immigration Partnership News

We're Building Community Through Immigration

Discovering Ukrainian Folk Music and Supporting Immigrant Women: Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church's Community Initiatives


Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church is excited to announce a new series of music lessons for adults and children starting today, March 13, 2023. This program is part of the "Discover Ukraine" initiative and the "Family Support Club" project, which is supported by community donations to the Immigration Partnership Fund for Immigrant and Refugee Initiatives at the Waterloo Region Community Foundation.

In addition to the music program, the "Family Support Club" project also includes a resource called "The Program for Women". This resource aims to improve the emotional well-being of women who may be struggling to adapt to their new environment after immigrating, particularly those who have been forced to flee from their homes due to war. Through communication, knowledge sharing, and skill development, the program seeks to provide emotional and psychological support for women.

Both programs are part of the Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church's efforts to support and welcome immigrants and refugees into the community.

See the Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church’s Facebook page for more information.


Holy Transfiguration Ukrainian Catholic Church | Kitchener ON | Facebook


Pictures by Elena Kharlova -https://www.instagram.com/petelechka_photo/

On this International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21, in partnership with the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre, the Immigration Partnership is hosting an event to showcase 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.

 

More information about this event will be coming soon! In the meantime, we invite you to learn more about our #RacialEquityWR campaign to end racism and discrimination in Waterloo Region, which engages residents, local businesses and community partners in creating a welcoming, anti-racist community.


Take action against hate and help spread the message of welcoming diversity, belonging and equity for all.

#RacialEquityWR: Anti-Racism Resources - Immigration Waterloo Region

Building a Community Committed to Providing Equitable Interpretation Services to Newcomers to Canada



There are more than 10,000 people living in Waterloo Region who don’t speak English or French. Make your organization more accessible to them by providing interpretation. This “Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" is a great tool to help organizations implement interpretation services.

 

Download and use the "Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" here: www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/InterpretationChecklist

For more details on these events and other immigration, anti-racism and community initiatives, follow us on our social media accounts!

Facebook  Twitter  Linkedin  Youtube  

Here are some ways Waterloo Region residents can support the people of Turkey and Syria impacted by the devastating earthquake.


Donate Today - Earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria Emergency | UNHCR Canada

Donate to the Earthquake in Turkiye and Syria Appeal - ETSA MWF Don (redcross.ca)

Syria and Türkiye earthquake | Mennonite Central Committee (mcccanada.ca)

Donate - Humanitarian Coalition | Türkiye and Syria Earthquake Appeal

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

Community Partner Highlights 

*Please be aware that certain services may be

limited or unavailable depending on your status in Canada.

Fundraising Event for Refugee Rights Day


The fundraising event for Refugee Rights Day hosted by Compass Refugee Centre is on April 4th, and they are looking for donations of items such as crafts, textiles, jewelry, basketry, pottery, carving, sculpture, and photography, drawing, painting artwork to display and offer as door prizes.

Donations can be dropped off at their office located at 230-675 Queen Street South, Kitchener, before Tuesday, March 21st.


For any questions or inquiries, people can reach out to Josi at compass@compassrefugee.ca

YMCA of Three Rivers is Looking for Board and Committee Members


The YMCA of Three Rivers is looking for Board and Committee Members to join their volunteer leadership team.

The deadline to apply is March 31, 2023. Learn more about the role here: Recruitment (adp.com)

New in-person and Online English Classes Options Being Offered at St. Louis


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 Workers - 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)

As we move into the spring season, it's time to start thinking about filing our taxes. The 2022 tax season is here, and it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest changes and deadlines.

Virtual and In-Person Tax Filling Support


The Social Development Centre Waterloo Region offers free virtual and in person tax preparation for low income individuals. Returns can be done virtual, drop off or in-person at the Civic Hub Waterloo Region. Appointments are required for all returns and can be booked through email at lesleyacrompton@gmail.com or 519-572-2570.


Also, there is a Year Round Virtual SDCWR Tax Clinic available to those that qualify. Learn more about eligibility by email at taxclinic@waterlooregion.org, or by phone at 519-579-3800, ext. 5.

Virtual and In-Person Tax Filing Support 2023 | Social Development Centre Waterloo Region

Find a Tax Clinic in your Area


Community organizations are hosting virtual tax clinics where volunteers can assist you in completing and filing your taxes for free via video conference or phone. Volunteer tax preparation clinics can be held at any time during the year, however, most clinics are offered in March and April. If you cannot find a tax preparation clinic in your area, check back again as community organizations add clinics regularly.

Before visiting a tax clinic, make sure you are eligible for the free service. If you're planning to go to an in-person free tax clinic, please check out this directory: Find a tax clinic in your area (cra-arc.gc.ca)

Key Dates for 2022 Taxes


Filling Dates for 2022 Taxes


  • April 30, 2023 (May 1, 2023 since April 30 is a Sunday): Deadline to file your taxes
  • June 15, 2023: Deadline to file your taxes if you or your spouse or common-law partner are self-employed


Payment date for 2022 Taxes


  • April 30, 2023 (May 1, 2023 since April 30 is a Sunday): Deadline to pay your taxes


For more information visit Get ready to do your taxes - Canada.ca

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!

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)

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.

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.

Welcoming and Settling Newcomer Ukrainian Families Webinar Series


Operation Ukrainian Safe Haven will be hosting a series of webinars to hear from a select number of organizations who have participated in welcoming and settling newcomer Ukrainian Families nationally. Each webinar will focus on a theme area and organizations will share about their project, the outcomes and key learnings.


Please notice prior registration is required for the sessions listed below.

Innovative Practices - Employment | Pratiques innovantes - Emploi 


Mar. 20, 2023, 2:00PM - 3:30PM EST

Register Now!

Innovative Practices - LIPs, Community and Smaller Centres | Pratiques innovantes - PLIs, communauté et petits centres  


Mar. 30, 2023, 2:00PM - 3:30PM EST

Register Now!

Information and Resources

What Does it Mean to Be a Host


WR Grassroots Response is always looking for people in Waterloo Region willing to open up their homes to Ukrainian fleeing the war. The number of Ukrainians seeking shelter is not slowing and there are new requests for help every day.

If you are interested in becoming a host, there are several ways you can help. Hosts are people with space in their homes and a willingness to open their doors. Some hosts have a sofa bed and can offer emergency hosting only, others have a spare room or an apartment (and sometimes two) and are able to host for longer periods. Some can cook meals and help with paperwork.



Learn more about how you can become a host and support the Ukrainian community:

Provide Housing | WRGR (wrgrassrootsresponse.ca)

Be engAGED in Shaping Older Adult Programs


The City of Kitchener is engaging with the community to learn about programs for adults 55+. The goal is for Kitchener residents 55+ to have access to welcoming and inclusive programs in their neighbourhoods that support wellness and active living. It will also help staff understand which neighborhoods to prioritize in offering programs for older adults. This survey is an important step toward the age-friendly vision of being a community where everyone can live and age well. The survey is open to seniors 55 and older and informal caregivers of seniors.


The survey is open until March 17 and can be translated into more than 100 languages (the translation feature is in the top right corner of the page).


Be engAGED in shaping older adult programs | EngageWR

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: Nominate a Woman of Distinction Today! (ywcacambridge.ca)

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

COVID-19 Impact on Canadian Immigrant and Refugee-Serving Sector: A Follow-Up Survey on Working Remotely


Three years ago the Canadian immigrant and refugee-serving sector was surveyed during the first month of working remotely as a result of COVID-19.


Take this follow-up survey to tell how you are doing, both individually and organizationally. The survey will close on April 7, 2023.


COVID & Canada’s Settlement Sector Follow-up Survey (google.com)

Québec-Ontario Project Funding


Under the agreement, Ontario’s Ministry of Francophone Affairs and the Secrétariat du Québec aux relations canadiennes are funding projects developed and carried out jointly by Francophone organizations in Ontario and in Québec which aim to:


  • Encourage the development of Francophone culture
  • Leverage Francophone economic opportunities
  • Enhance a mutual understanding between the two provinces



Each project must be submitted by an applicant from one province and a co-applicant from the other province. Ontario and Québec are each investing $250,000 in support of eligible projects. The maximum grant limit per project is $40,000. While projects from all sectors are eligible, priority will be given to projects from the economic development, culture, education and tourism sectors. The application period for 2023-2024 is open from March 1 until April 12, 2023.


For more details on eligibility, please visit: Québec-Ontario project funding | ontario.ca

Inclusive Community Grants Program: Promoting Accessibility and Active Living for All


The Inclusive Community Grants Program is now accepting applications for community projects that promote accessibility, safety, and active living for people of all ages and abilities. The program aims to support municipalities, non-for-profit organizations, and Indigenous communities in creating physical and social environments that enable older adults and people with disabilities to continue contributing to all aspects of community life. Projects that receive funding should benefit local communities and meet the needs of seniors and people with disabilities.


Applications are open until April 20, 2023: Inclusive Community Grants | ontario.ca

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)

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: Neighbourhood Matching Fund - City of Waterloo Neighbourhoods

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.

Events and Webinars

UPCOMING EVENTS

IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:

Work Permits: International Mobility Program

Mar. 15, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM

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.

Register Now!

Workplace Inclusion: A Roadmap for Senior Managers

Mar. 15, 2023, 1:00PM

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.

Register Now!

IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:

Global Skills Strategy (GSS)

Mar. 22, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM

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.

Register Now!

Islamophobia and Anti-Hate Workshops

Mar. 22, 2023, 6:00PM - 8:00PM

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.

Register Now!

Community Conversations: Developing Supports for the Trans-Autism Community

Mar. 22 & Mar. 29, 2023, 7:00PM - 8:30PM

Spectrum and the Waterloo Region Family Network are hosting a community conversation to assess the need for supports tailored to the intersection of Autism and Gender Non-Conformity in the Waterloo Region. The meeting is open to individuals belonging to this intersection, caretakers or friends of those at this intersection, and those involved in community organizations working with these populations. The goal is to gather input on experiences, past services, and barriers to accessing support to develop appropriate supports for the Trans-Autism Community.

There is also a virtual meeting you can attend on March 29th. The Zoom registration page is here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtcO-tpzIjHtZf6InozMlaFWO9QGRyFSZb

Register Now!

Open Work Permits:

A Guided Pathway to Help People Apply 

Mar. 23, 2023 - 12:00PM - 1:00PM

Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) is hosting a webinar on how to navigate their Guided Pathway for applying for an open work permit. The Guided Pathway is an online interview that guides users through the process of drafting an open work permit application. It also provides information on eligibility criteria and necessary documents.

During the webinar, participants will learn how to use the Guided Pathway and gain insights on who can benefit from it. The webinar will also cover tips on where to pay close attention to avoid problems. when applying for an open work permit.

Register Now!

Acting Up: Countering Racism In Our Communities Webinar

Mar. 23, 2023 - 1:00PM - 2:30PM

A Fireside Chat with OCASI member agencies: Hear what activist-leaders in the Ontario immigrant and refugee-serving sector are doing to counter racism. Join the discussion to explore challenges, share practical tips and build solidarity.

Register Now!

Working with Refugees and Survivors of War

Mar. 27 and Apr. 15, 2023,

12 Hours Workshop (See schedules)

Wilfrid Laurier University is offering this interactive workshop that will provide both a conceptual framework and practical skills for assessment and interventions when working with refugees and survivors of war.


For more information contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:

Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca

Remote: 519-884-0710 ext. 5234

Online: 519-884-0710 ext. 5235

Register Now!

Grant Writing Workshop for Racialized Communities

Mar. 28 & Apr. 4, 2023 - 6:00PM - 8:00PM

The City of Kitchener, in collaboration with Kind Mind Family Wellness and the Kitchener Public Library, will be hosting this free, two-part hybrid workshop, tailored for racialized groups serving racialized communities, to teach the essentials for writing successful municipal, provincial, and federal grant applications. The workshop will cover effective grant writing basics and specific topics related to the City of Kitchener's Racialized, and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund. Participants will receive guidance and support related to their specific grant application challenges and build practical knowledge and transferable skills that can be applied to future grant applications. The workshop is available both in person and online, and any questions, including accommodation support, can be directed to Rea Parchment, Senior Anti-Racism Advisor at the City of Kitchener, at rea.parchment@kitchener.ca.

Register Now!

IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:

Francophone Immigration

Mar. 29, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM

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.

Register Now!

IRCC Virtual Learning Series for Employers Winter 2023:

Permanent Resident Pathways

Apr. 5, 2023, 12:00PM - 12:30PM

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.

Register Now!

ONGOING EVENTS!

Citizenship Support Group

In Person

Classes: Jan. 11 - Mar. 29, 2023

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.

Information

Growing Stronger - Adult Trauma Group

Jan. 19 - Apr. 6, 2023

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.

Information

Let's Talk Winter Sessions:

Weekly on Wednesdays between

Feb. 1 - Mar. 22, 2023, 4:30PM - 7:30PM 

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!

Register now!

Other Resources and News

Labour Force Survey: Employment in Canada held steady in February 2023 from CIC News, March 11, 2023


Most Canadians believe heightened immigration will be valuable to national economy from CIC News, March 11, 2023


Canada’s immigration ministers provide update on top objectives from CIC News, March 10, 2023


Federal, provincial and territorial immigration Ministers meet to plan for the future of Canada’s immigration system from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, March 10, 2023


Ontario Invests in Inclusive and Accessible Communities from Ontario Newsroom, March 10, 2023


Waterloo Region partners with Indigenous agency to offer ‘culturally safe’ parenting support from The Record, March 10, 2023


Canada looking for partners to help expand and diversify IEC program from CIC News, March 9, 2023


Immigration Minister says Canada, U.S. support ‘root causes’ approach to immigration challenges from The Globe and Mail, March 7, 2023

Calendar - Immigration Waterloo Region



The Immigration Waterloo Region calendar has information about local programs and events for newcomers. Subscribe for a digest of events coming up in the next week or add your own events to share.

We would love to hear from you!

Feel free to send us suggestions or relevant events/resources to include to the Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly by emailing Dan Vandebelt (dvandebelt@regionofwaterloo.ca) and Diana Carrillo Joya (DJoya@regionofwaterloo.ca)

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