Searching for Newcomer Employment Programs
Located near Oakville
Dial 2-1-1. Our helpline is answered by real people 24/7 and service is available in 150+ languages.
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)
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
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
905-333-3499 ext 460
Visit Website
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 - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
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
- counselling and support for women exposed to family violence
- information and referral
- violence prevention education
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;
- 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 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)
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
-----------------------------------------------------
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)
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
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)
905-333-3499 ext 461
Visit Website
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 - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
------------ ------------- ---------------
Enhanced Language Training
- for internationally trained professionals
- individual counselling and action plan development, job placement, mentoring, networking, resume and interview preparation
- business writing, pronunciation
- childminding may be available for students attending classes
- business advisors provide counsel and training on all aspects of establishing a business
- connects internationally trained professionals with employment opportunities in rural areas of Ontario
- information and services to learn about the opportunities and the communities
Crisis: 416-455-8252
Alternate Crisis: 416-450-8734
Visit Website
------------ ------------- ---------------
LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
- English classes
- LINC classes running online and in-person
- childminding may be available; part-time or full-time classes
- employment and business start-up assistance
- resume writing and job search skills
- networking and interview skills
- in-person and online classes
- information and referral
- translation, interpretation and certification of documents
- citizenship preparation classes
- assistance with forms and applications, including access to Ontario Electricity Support Program
- workshops
- services delivered in elementary and secondary schools in Mississauga during the school year
- information about the school system
- parent and youth-specific workshops with information on topics such as housing, health care and job search
- group activities for newly arrived immigrant and refugee youth, adults and seniors
- trained volunteer mentors
- homework help for youth
- computer classes and low impact exercise for seniors
- tools to de-escalate conflicts and advocate for children
- helps parents define acceptable behavior, respond to their children's needs and reinforce their family's values
Visit Website
COVID-19 Update: in-person and walk-in service has resumed; virtual services are still available
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Bridging Services:
- offered online and provide internationally trained professionals with customized job search training, workplace communication, labour market information, credential assessment, referrals/placements and mentoring connections
- for individual bridge training programs, see separate listing for Ontario Bridge Training Program
Online Job Search Centre
- articles, resources, webinars, interactive games and videos to help find work
- topics covered include resumes, interview preparation, networking, the job market, career self-assessment and workplace success
- Canadian Employment Connections provides sector-specific training and job search support for individuals approved to move to Canada
- provides support for newcomers interested in starting a business in Canada
- pre-arrival stream helps entrepreneurs who are approved to move to Canada, build a network and start preparing to open a business before they arrive
- 3, 4 or 5 day job search techniques workshops, covering labour market information, access to trades and professions, resume preparation, networking
- extensive individual assistance
- personalized counselling and support workshops, information sessions and guidance on skills development, training and employment
- translations and interpretation for settlement related issues
- Commissioner of Oaths services
- information and referrals to external services such as income tax clinics and legal aid or to other relevant community and government resources
- online citizenship test preparation classes
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
- bus fare for eligible attendees, and childminding for children 19 months-6 years while parents attend
- part-time classes, mornings or afternoons
- job search training; skills assessment
- resume and cover letter help, interview coaching
- labour market information
- access to computers, internet, fax, photocopier, telephone
- multi-sector job fairs, networking events
- learn sewing and clothing alterations, with skills, knowledge and language to manage a small business; work experience
- goal to become financially independent and self-employed
- for those in Canada less than 3 years
- community support through volunteer befriending
- orientation to the community and services such as banking, transit, education
- settlement counselling and orientation; employment information
- information on housing, health care, financial supports, assistance filling documents and forms, referrals to community resources
- regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
- non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services
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
- regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
- non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services
- 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
- 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
- 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
905-333-3499 ext 415
Visit Website
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 - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
* 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
905-333-3499 ext 201
Visit Website
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 - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
Programs to help newcomers become established; cultural and social activities for the Vietnamese community
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
- childminding may be available, bus fare for eligible attendees
- citizenship preparation
- assistance to fill out government applications
- settlement counselling
- support groups for women, youth, and seniors to aid in integration
- interpretation and translation
- Commissioner of Oaths by appointment
- citizenship classes
- English and Math tutoring for students in grades 1-12
- heritage language (Vietnamese)
- French classes
- computer classes
Cultural Services
- organizes traditional festivals, ritual ceremonies and Canadian celebrations
- traditional music and visual and performing arts programs and training
- picnics, camping trips, talent show
- 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
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
- digital Literacy Training
- free seasonal income tax clinic
- mobile dental clinic
- Orientation to Ontario (O2O) webinars
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)
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
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
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