Settlement Services

New to the Sault?  We can help!  

As a recognized leader in the settlement and integration of newcomers and refugees to Sault Ste. Marie, we provide the resources and guidance you need to become engaged in social, civic, cultural, and economic life. 

We provide solutions-based counselling to newcomers seeking settlement and employment support. 

We offer free language training, skill enhancement, employment support, and information sessions on a variety of essential topics, such as applying for Canadian citizenship and immigration pathways.  Our social and recreational activities also help you establish social and professional networks in the community.

If you wish to access French language training and/or settlement services in French, please contact our partner organization, Réseau du Nord | Soutien à l’immigration Francophone.

Settlement Services

We provide newcomers with:

  • Solutions-based counselling for newcomers seeking settlement and employment support
  • Individual and family needs assessment, goal setting, and referrals
  • Support for internationally-trained professionals navigating accreditation and licensure in Ontario
  • Information about your rights and entitlements as a new resident of Ontario and Canada
  • Assistance in filling out forms and applications
  • Help in finding programs and services within the community
  • Aid in developing personal and community relationships and resources
  • Advice, support and advocacy to deal with the effects of migration, culture shock, and other stresses of adjusting to life in Canada
  • English language assessment and training for eligible clients

The Resettlement Assistance Program

The Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) provides immediate and essential support to Government Assisted Refugees (GARs) who are selected overseas on the basis of their need for protection through Canada’s Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program. RAP, which is separate from the Settlement Program, provides a bridge to assist incoming refugees in their settlement and community integration journey. While we provide needed support for GARs, all settlement services are available to every newcomer residing or moving to Sault Ste. Marie.

Under RAP, GARs are provided with immediate resettlement assistance, orientation services and income support upon arrival in Canada within the first 4 – 6 weeks they arrive. Financial support is administered by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and delivered directly to clients. Other services such as assistance at reception centres, the provision of temporary accommodation, help in finding permanent housing and orientation to life in Canada are provided by Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) through Contribution Agreements. Using a hub and spoke model, the Sault Community Career Centre has partnered with Thunder Bay Multicultural Association (TBMA) for the RAP program.

Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) program services include:

  • Airport reception
  • Temporary and Long-term accommodation
  • Referrals to health care services
  • Linking clients to federal and provincial programs such as Social Insurance Number (SIN), Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), etc.
  • Orientation on housing, education, health, employment, etc.
  • Financial orientation
  • Life skills training and support
  • Help with Immigration related applications
  • Language assessment
  • Referrals to other essential services in the community

We work towards moving refugees to a healthy state of independence by creating an inclusive and accessible environment.

free Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

We’re currently accepting new students!

Build your confidence in speaking and understanding English. Take advantage of our FREE in-person Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes.

Our full-time day classes and part-time evening classes are available for all skill levels and are designed to help you succeed.

We offer:

  • Experienced instructors
  • Small class sizes
  • A convenient downtown location

You might even qualify for FREE transportation support for gas or bus passes and FREE childcare for toddlers and preschool-age children.

Locations:

Full-time day classes are offered Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a 1-hour lunch at the Sault Community Career Centre, 477 Queen Street East, Unit 101.

Part-time evening classes are offered two nights a week. Depending on your skill level, you might attend Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Sault Community Career Centre, 503 Queen Street East. 

Eligibility:

Is LINC right for you? If you are a protected person, convention refugee, permanent resident, or Ukrainian temporary resident under CUAET with valid documentation, this program is for YOU!

Take the first step towards feeling more confident in speaking and understanding English!

Contact us today!

If you are interested in LINC classes, please complete our inquiry form, and a member of our team will contact you shortly.

NEWCOMER SENIORS (55+) BRIDGING PROGRAM

Are you a newcomer living in Sault Ste. Marie who is 55 years of age or older?

Join our Newcomer Seniors Bridging Program for warm smiles, friendly faces, and plenty of FREE activities!

This program helps you settle into the community, build connections, and access resources tailored to your unique needs.

Activities include:

  • Group activities like walking tours
  • Getting creative with arts and crafts
  • Playing games and socializing
  • Learning new recipes in cooking classes
  • And so much more!

Meet new friends, stay active, and have fun while being part of a supportive and welcoming community.

Click the button below to see a list of upcoming events and to register to participate!