Global Humanitarian Program
In-Canada Refugees and Newcomer Services
Humanitarian Crisis Response: Providing life-saving support during crises, from essential services to legal assistance
Hope for Refugees International understands that millions of refugees and asylum seekers around theworld need humanitarian support and immigration services ranging from essential basics like food, shelter,clothing, shoes, and sanitary materials to legal services, employment opportunities, and resources to tomeet their daily needs, live a quality life and stay safe from all forms of violence and exploitation. Hope forRefugees believes that all refugees should have access to essential basics and other relevant services. We work with our domestic and global allies and donors to mobilize humanitarian support in times of crisis and to help refugees and newcomers navigate essential immigration and asylum-seeking processes in their countries of destination.
We welcome anyone asking for support regarding immigration issues, offering timely and holistic case management and service provision for precarious migrant and refugee populations.
Our immigration and settlement services in Canada support vulnerable refugees and newcomers with essential assistance and information on issues like applying for asylum, finding a shelter, translation and interpretation, referral to immigration lawyers, preparations for refugee hearings, navigating access to local social support services, skills development, counseling to support a healthy and positive start to life in Canada.
We also support refugees and newcomers through conferences, seminars, and workshops where we share information, relevant resources, tools, and materials on essential immigration processes and procedures.
In-Canada Refugee and Newcomer Programs and Services
Welcome to “Empowering and Connecting Refugees and Newcomers: A Path to a Bright Future,” a flagship program proudly run by Hope for Refugees International (HRI), dedicated to bringing Hope and Opportunity and supporting Black African and LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers in Canada. Our program, with a primary focus on racialized (BIPOC) individuals and LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers, stands as a beacon of dignity, inclusivity, and diversity and emphasizes our commitment to providing a welcoming, diverse, and empowering space for all Black African and LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers in Canada through providing relevant and up-to-date information, resources, and settlement services that help our members to achieve their personal settlement goals.
We understand the unique challenges refugees and newcomers face, and our commitment to embracing all aspects of the community, including LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers, makes our program a vibrant and welcoming place for our members.
The program offers tailored settlement support and services including essential, relevant, and up-to-date information, resources, tools, and referrals on emergency shelters, housing, employment, immigration, Sexual Reproductive Health, HIV/AIDS and Mental Health, and integration, to empower every member of our community to navigate toward a brighter, more inclusive future, and integrate into the Canadian Society.
We are here to welcome you, support you, and journey with you on the path to a brighter tomorrow.
In-Canada Refugee and Newcomer Programs and Services
1. Settlement Assistance
- Orientation and Information Sessions: We provide comprehensive virtual and in-person information sessions tailored to address the specific needs of Black African and LGBTQ refugees, and newcomers, to understand the Canadian culture, systems, and services and integrate into the Canadian Society. Our bi-monthly sessions address topics ranging from emergency shelters, housing, employment and career support, immigration, refugee protection and citizenship issues, government benefits, essential documents, education and training, health, community and recreation, consumer information, personal finances, and income tax, food banks, clothing, volunteering, peer support, and fun activities.
- Language Classes: Access to inclusive language training programs to enhance your English skills.
- Housing Support: Guidance in finding safe and affordable housing options.
2. Employment Services
- Job Search Workshops: Skills development and labour market information, resume building, cover letter, and interview preparation tailored to the needs of our diverse community.
- Employment Counselling: Personalized support in identifying career opportunities.
- Connections to Employers: Building bridges and connecting with local employers who value inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.
3. Education Support
- School Enrolment Assistance: Guidance in enrolling your children in Canadian schools.
- Adult Education: Access to educational opportunities, including GED programs and post-secondary education pathways.
4. Health and Well-being
- Access to Healthcare: Information on the Canadian healthcare system and support in finding medical services.
- Access to sexual reproductive health information, resources, and referral for essential services including safe abortion, family planning, and HIV/AIDs testing and prevention services.
- Mental Health Services: Counseling and resources to promote emotional well-being.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Referrals to sensitive and culturally competent counseling services for refugees and newcomers to address the impact of past traumas.
- Diversity-Centered Workshops: Mental health workshops that celebrate the rich diversity of our community and provide strategies for well-being.
5. Immigration and Refugee Protection Support
- Immigration and Legal Advice: Assistance with immigration documents and legal matters.
- Refugee Claims Support: Guidance for those seeking asylum in Canada, including Specialised support for LGBTQ+ asylum
- Guidance and support for applications such as sponsorship, humanitarian and compassionate reasons, work permits, IFH, PRRA, refugee appeals, travel documents and PR applications, legal aid applications, etc.
6. LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Program
- Safe Spaces and Peer-to-Peer Support Groups: We offer specialized peer-to-peer support and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ refugees and newcomers to meet, dialogue, connect, share experiences, and find a welcoming community.
- Legal and Advocacy Services: Expertise in LGBTQ+ rights, helping navigate the complexities of asylum claims and discrimination cases.
7. Cultural Integration
- Cultural Orientation Workshops: Exploring Canadian customs, traditions, and cultural events.
- Community Events: Engage in local festivals and activities to connect with your neighbors.
8. Youth and Family Services
- Youth Programs: Activities and support for newcomer youth to build social connections.
- Family Support: Parenting workshops and resources for healthy family integration.
9. Financial Literacy
- Budgeting and Financial Planning: Guidance on managing finances and understanding Canadian financial systems.
- Banking Services: Support in opening a bank account
10. Community Engagement
- Volunteer Opportunities: Connect with local organizations and give back to the community.
- Community Groups: Join support networks and meet other newcomers and refugees.
11. Social Services
- Assistance with Social Support Services and Government Benefits: Guidance applying and accessing government support programs including Ontario Works, COHB, Rent To Geared Income, Transitional Housing Programs, Ontario Disability Program (ODSP), Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), WRAP programs, Bridging to Employment programs, TTC – presto card discounted program, child care benefits among others.
- Housing and Food Security: Help with finding affordable housing and accessing food resources.