Searching for Newcomer Employment Programs

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Service delivery is frequently changing as a result of COVID-19, please visit website for the most up-to-date information

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Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education

• a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways

These activities include:

• Assessment, Information and Referral Services
• Job Search Workshops
• Mock Interviews
• Resume Critique
• Job Fairs
• Networking Events
• Information Sessions on Employment Topics

If you are a Health Care professional, please visit the HMC Healthcare Connect for Specialized services

Overview of programs ranging from basic education and literacy to workforce preparation, career training and job search assistance programs, and directs to other related listings in this directory

ADULT LITERACY & BASIC EDUCATION
Reading, writing, speaking, communication, computation and/or problem solving skills:
* for adults who cannot read or write at a functional level) see Adult Literacy Programs here
* to strengthen functional skills in these areas see Adult Basic Education programs here


SECONDARY EDUCATION
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
* to complete at locations in Halton, see here


PREPARING & TRAINING FOR THE WORKFORCE
Prevocational Training (for people with disabilities, including mental health issues)
Instruction and/or counselling to develop:
* physical and emotional tolerance for work demands and pressures
* personal-social behaviours
* basic manual, academic and communications skills needed to acquire basic job skills
* see Prevocational Training programs here

Career Awareness and Counselling
* Career Awareness (provides information and data about various industries and professions): see here
* Career Counselling (provides information and guidance in evaluating aptitude, abilities and interests, to choose a vocation or career and select the type of training): see here

Vocational Assessment
Tests skills, abilities, interests, personality traits and other attributes for success in different occupational areas or specific positions
* may include programs that allow people to try out jobs for short periods of time to see if there's a 'fit' and, for people with disabilities, determine what supports might be needed to succeed if hired.
* for programs see here

Job Training
* Vocational Education, see here
* On the Job Training, see here
* Computer and Related Technology Classes, see here

Work Experience/Internship Programs
* Work Experience Programs, see here
* Internship Programs, see here

Apprenticeship
* Apprenticeship Preparation, see here
* Apprenticeship training, see here

Job training expense assistance
Financial assistance or loans to help people pay for tuition, books, living expenses, transportation, disability supports, assistance in caring for dependents etc.
* for programs see here


JOB SEARCH
Pre-job Guidance
Provides skills in preparing a resume, job application letters/questionnaires, answering job ads and taking employment tests, tips on appropriate dress, personal appearance and interview techniques, etc.)
* for programs see here

Comprehensive Job Assistance Centres
One-stop centres that may include job counselling, testing and assessment, pre-job guidance, job matching and referral, labour market and career information, information on financial aid for education and training, and referral for job training, transportation, child care, personal and financial counselling, etc.
* for programs see here

Specialized Job Assistance Centres:
Disability-related programs:
* Comprehensive Disability-related Programs, see here
* Supported Employment (job coach works side-by-side with client in workplace), see here
* Centre-based Employment (separate and supported work centres for those with disabilities), see here

Ex-offender Employment Programs, see here

Immigrant/refugee Employment Programs, see here

Indigenous Employment Programs, see here

Summer Employment Programs, see here

Vocational Rehabilitation (for people with disabilities, emotional problems or history of substance abuse), see here

Youth Employment Programs, see here

This listing gives an overview of services to assist newcomers to Canada, and is an index to related listings in this directory

DRIVER'S LICENCE:
A newcomer to Ontario can use a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days * after 60 days, a newcomer must switch to an Ontario driver's licence
* for more information on driver's licences for newcomers, see Ministry of Transportation website here
* to apply for an Ontario driver's licence, go to a Drivetest Centre (for locations, see full listings here)


HEALTH INSURANCE:
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides publicly-funded health care for residents of Ontario
* for more information, see separate listing here
* to apply for OHIP, go to a ServiceOntario Service Counter (for locations, see full listings here)

Interim Federal Health Program provides limited, temporary coverage of health-care benefits for specific groups of people in Canada who do not have provincial, territorial, or private health-care coverage
* for more information, see Government of Canada website here


IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the arrival of immigrants, provides protection to refugees, and offers programming to help newcomers settle in Canada
* also grants citizenship and issues travel documents (such as passports) to Canadians
* for more information, see Government of Canada website here

Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship test is used by newcomers to study for the citizenship test
* the publication is available here to read online, listen to, or download
* a free print copy can be ordered online or by calling 1-888-567-7183
* also available to borrow at some library locations


INFORMATION AND REFERRAL FOR NEWCOMERS
For Community Information Centres throughout Halton that maintain information about the full range of human services and which function as the primary source of information about and linkage to human service providers in the community, see here
* for help in languages other than English, dial 2-1-1 to reach 211 Ontario, which uses data from the Halton Community Services Directory and has live translation services in more than 150 languages

Halton Newcomer Portal www.welcometohalton.ca

Settlement.org website


INTERPRETATION AND TRANSLATION:
For a list of organizations that may provide this service, see here
* may be a fee for document translation


LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION - ESL, FSL AND LINC:
Programs that offer opportunities to learn listening, speaking, reading and writing skills with an emphasis on developing the level of communication competence that is essential for adults who are living in a setting in which English or French is the primary language
* for more information, see separate listing here


NEWCOMER SETTLEMENT SERVICES:
Free services for newcomers to Canada are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to provide advice and help on:
* looking for a job * getting a language assessment * registering for language classes * finding a place to live * signing children up for school * learning about community services

Available in Burlington, Halton Hills, Oakville, Milton and surrounding areas

Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
* English Classes
* Enhanced Language Training
* Settlement Assistance
* Community Connections Programs
* free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment

Assists highly skilled internationally trained immigrants (ITIs) gain equivalent work experience in Ontario

• regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
• non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services

Bridge to Cloud - Computing and Big Data: program is for internationally trained professionals in information technology and focuses on cloud computing and big data industry trends

Programs available out of Oakville office include:

Job Search Workshops
* supports newcomers with one-one one employment counselling and employment related workshops/job fairs
* facilitates connection between employers and newcomer job seekers
* free workshops take place bi-monthly

Offers a wide range of services and learning opportunities to newcomers to facilitate their settlement and integration into Canada

Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry; childminding and transportation assistance may be available for eligible attendees

Settlement and Integration Services

• orientation, information
• translation and interpretation
• job board, job placement; resume preparation and assistance; interview and job search techniques

Family Support Program

• counselling and support for women exposed to family violence
• information and referral
• violence prevention education

COVID19 -- open for in-person, virtual, telephone and email services from Monday to Friday 9 am - 5 pm, no appointment necessary.


Neighbourhood multi-service agency

Pathways to Settlement: client-centred program to facilitate newcomers' integration and participation in Canadian society

Information and Awareness Services: helps newcomers settle including information and orientation on issues such as:

• immigration, health, education and housing
• translation and interpretation
• form filling;
• referrals to government and community resources ; monthly information seminars
• supportive counselling for individuals and families;

Navigating the Canadian Labour Market (NCLM): assists newcomers and internationally trained professionals become employable in Canada, create an effective job search plan and learn about employer expectations

• provides needs assessment and customized action plan on career planning
• facilitates workshops on Canadian workplace culture, resume writing, interview skills, pre-employment training and networking events
• one-on-one job search coaching and mentoring
• post-post-program follow-up and support, and job leads
• access to computers, printers, telephones, fax machines, photocopiers, Internet

New Beginnings-Settlement & Employment Program (NB): supports immigrants, refugees and citizens in their settlement and adaption process to help newcomers and citizens to be fully engaged in Canadian life, and to maximize the benefits of their contribution into Canadian society.

Integrated Employment Services (IES) Program: see separate listing

Community Connections in School: in partnership with Peel District School Board, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the adaptation of newly-arrived newcomers to school and community life by providing support services typically needed by newcomers in their first year in Canada, focusing on information, orientation, advocacy, referral and access

Community Connections in Library: in partnership with Brampton Library and IRCC; programs include group information sessions including sessions for seniors and English conversation circles

Seniors Program -- helps seniors enhance their knowledge and skills on various topics of interest, and engages them in activities such as social interactions and outings to to Canadian cultural sites; reduces isolation by bringing older adults together in a safe environment.

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Service delivery is frequently changing as a result of COVID-19, please visit website for the most up-to-date information

-----------------------------------------

Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education

• a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways

These activities include:

• Assessment, Information and Referral Services
• Job Search Workshops
• Mock Interviews
• Resume Critique
• Job Fairs
• Networking Events
• Information Sessions on Employment Topics

If you are a Health Care professional, please visit the HMC Healthcare Connect for Specialized services

Immigrant Services -- settlement information and orientation to life in Canada

• needs assessment
• referral to other agencies and government services
• help filling in government forms and applications
• Commissioner of Oaths, document translation and interpretation with service providers
• crisis support counselling
• Youth Achieving Employment Project (YAE) research project to develop an intervention for recent postsecondary graduates struggling to find employment
• Mississauga Cycles cycling mentorship and do-it-yourself Bike Hub
• New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) where seniors help seniors learn computer based social networking skills, digital photography, event management, report writing and also a social and physical exercise club

Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

Enhanced Language Training (ELT) -- sector specific language training with job search workshops and a co-op placement
English Conversation Circles (ECC), and ESL Home Based Business Language Training

Community Connections Mentorship Program (formerly HOST Program)

• group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks
• trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development

Community Services

• digital Literacy Training
• free seasonal income tax clinic
• mobile dental clinic
• Orientation to Ontario (O2O) webinars

Access centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program -- assistance with applications

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Service delivery is frequently changing as a result of COVID-19, please visit website for the most up-to-date information

-----------------------------------------

Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education

• a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways

These activities include:

• Assessment, Information and Referral Services
• Job Search Workshops
• Mock Interviews
• Resume Critique
• Job Fairs
• Networking Events
• Information Sessions on Employment Topics

If you are a Health Care professional, please visit the HMC Healthcare Connect for Specialized services

Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
* English Classes
* Enhanced Language Training
* Settlement Assistance
* Community Connections Programs
* free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment

Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
* English Classes
* Enhanced Language Training
* Settlement Assistance
* Community Connections Programs
* free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment

The TRIEC Mentoring Partnership matches immigrant professionals (mentees) with an established professional from the same profession (mentors)

• for 1.5 hours weekly over a 3 month period the mentor acts as a resource to facilitate access to Canadian experience, skills and connections
• program is a community partner of the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC)
• visit the website for further information

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Service delivery is frequently changing as a result of COVID-19, please visit website for the most up-to-date information

-----------------------------------------

Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education

• a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways

These activities include:

• Assessment, Information and Referral Services
• Job Search Workshops
• Mock Interviews
• Resume Critique
• Job Fairs
• Networking Events
• Information Sessions on Employment Topics

If you are a Health Care professional, please visit the HMC Healthcare Connect for Specialized services

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Office location currently closed to public due to COVID-19. Services are being offered virtually and in-person services are provided by appointment as required

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An initiative that matches newcomers with Canadian citizens, or longtime community members, to build their social connections and achieve their career goals in the Halton community

Participants get:

• access to career preparation workshops, which include guest speakers, activities about everyday life in Canada, and group discussions
• support with identifying opportunities that match your skills and job interests
• Canadian work experience and community connections through volunteer positions
• information, guidance and mentorship from Canadian citizens or longtime community members

This program is part of the Canada Connects initiative, see website for more information (canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/canada-connects.html)

COVID19 -- call or email concerning service updates


Information and referral to community services

Settlement information for immigrants and refugees (including GARs)

• job search and housing help; information about health and education system
• in-home settlement visits available
• participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry, childminding may be available for attendees with children 2 to 6 years, bus fare for eligible attendees
• computer/Zoom classes: Zoom classes open to all who want to learn video conferencing via the Zoom app; class outside LINC/ESL class time

Seniors programs including information and referral, social activities -- membership, help applying for benefits

Family abuse, mental health and rights information

Community Volunteer Income Tax program for low income families

Help for low-income families and seniors

• applying for Ontario Works in Peel or for Peel Access to Housing
• assistance with applications for OESP (Ontario Electricity Support Program)
• help to apply for COVID-19 support benefits

Commissioner for taking affidavits

Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
* English Classes
* Enhanced Language Training
* Settlement Assistance
* Community Connections Programs
* free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment

Services include one-on-one job search coaching, workshops, settlement services, academic upgrading and funded and fee-based pre-apprenticeship skilled trades programs
* collaborate with employers, providing free professional recruitment with access to pre-screened candidates, financial wage and training incentives and customized skilled trades training

For more information see:
* Services for Employers
* Skilled Trades Training Programs
* Employment Services
* LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) and Immigrant Services
* Doorways - Literacy and Basic Skills

Many of these programs and services are available at multiple locations in Halton Region

Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Service delivery is frequently changing as a result of COVID-19, please visit website for the most up-to-date information

-----------------------------------------

Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education

• a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways

These activities include:

• Assessment, Information and Referral Services
• Job Search Workshops
• Mock Interviews
• Resume Critique
• Job Fairs
• Networking Events
• Information Sessions on Employment Topics

If you are a Health Care professional, please visit the HMC Healthcare Connect for Specialized services

PROGRAM CURRENTLY SUSPENDED -- check website for updates

COVID19 -- Beginning April 25, 2022, in-person services resume BY APPOINTMENT ONLY; remote service by telephone, video-conferencing and email continue to be available during regular office hours

For internationally trained tradespersons

• Electricians (construction maintenance and industrial)
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (HRAC Mechanics)
• Industrial Millwrights (Industrial Mechanics)
• Plumbers

Trade-specific technical skills training and upgrading for licensing and accreditation to work in Ontario

• technical and workplace language training
• certification exam preparation
• employment counselling and job search strategies
• work experience placements
• mentoring and networking

On-the-job training incentives for employers available

COVID19 -- open for in-person, virtual, telephone and email services Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm; no appointment needed


Neighbourhood multi-service agency

Pathways to Settlement: client-centred program to facilitate newcomers' integration and participation in Canadian society

Information and Awareness Services: helps newcomers settle including information and orientation on issues such as:

• immigration, health, education and housing
• translation and interpretation
• form filling;
• referrals to government and community resources ; monthly information seminars
• supportive counselling for individuals and families;

Navigating the Canadian Labour Market (NCLM) -- assists newcomers and internationally trained professionals become employable in Canada, create an effective job search plan and learn about employer expectations

• provides needs assessment and customized action plan on career planning
• facilitates workshops on Canadian workplace culture, resume writing, interview skills, pre-employment training and networking events
• one-on-one job search coaching and mentoring
• post-post-program follow-up and support, and job leads
• access to computers, printers, telephones, fax machines, photocopiers, Internet

Integrated Employment Services (IES) Program -- see separate listing

Community Connections in School in partnership with Peel District School Board, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the adaptation of newly-arrived newcomers to school and community life by providing support services typically needed by newcomers in their first year in Canada, focusing on information, orientation, advocacy, referral and access

Community Connections in Library in partnership with Brampton Library and IRCC; programs include group information sessions including sessions for seniors, English conversation circles

Volunteers for Change (V4C)

• youth leadership project engages youth between the ages of 15-24 to build their leadership and communication skills
• increases engagement and level of participation in school, community and civic processes and builds self-confidence/self-esteem while expanding social network
• helps youth develop sense of identity, learn diversity awareness and team-building skills as well as strive to meet personal and social challenges
• participants complete at least 120 hours of volunteering and 40 hours of leadership training

Seniors Program -- helps seniors enhance their knowledge and skills on various topics of interest, and engages them in activities such as social interactions and outings to to Canadian cultural sites; reduces isolation by bringing older adults together in a safe environment.

Assists highly skilled internationally trained immigrants (ITIs) gain equivalent work experience in Ontario

• regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
• non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services

Foundations in HVAC:

• 12 week program for individuals with previous education or experience in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry, gas fitting, sheet metal or mechanical or electrical fields from outside Canada; language proficiency in English at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher
• in-class instruction in sector-specific skills and workplace communications
• co-op placement with local HVAC contractor
• employment and job search workshops
• job search assistance, coaching and connections to employers
• certifications in Gas Technician 3, Working at Heights, Ozone Depletion

Foundations in IT:

• 11 week program for individuals with previous education or experience in Information Technology (IT) from outside Canada; language proficiency in English at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher
• sector-specific training in workplace communications, and technical skills training to certify for Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK+)
• job search workshops; pre-employment coaching; job search assistance; connections to employers and work placement opportunities

Foundations in Network Cabling:

• 12 week program for individuals with previous education or experience in network cabling, telecommunications, electronics, and/or electrical fields from outside Canada; language proficiency in English at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or higher
• industry-specific training in workplace communications, and technical skills leading to certifications in network cabling, Workplace Hazardous Materals Information System (WHMIS), and Working at Heights
• job search support; connections to employers; pre-employment coaching and work placement

Integration and Settlement Program
Needs assessment, pre- and post-arrival information and referral, assistance to establish social and professional networks to promote community engagement, and assistance to access a range of settlement services

Connexions communautaires (Community Connections)
Group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks; trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development

PIDEF / TÉE (Settlement in French-Language Schools Program)
Settlement services in French-language schools, includes outreach program based in elementary and secondary schools from mid-August to end of June, and in libraries and social service agencies from July to mid-August, as well as Host Program for matching foreign trained professionals with peers