The government of Canada announced on January 17, 2022 that an investment of more than $35 million to expand resettlement capacity and settlement services for newcomers in Canada’s small towns and rural communities.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has selected 23 projects which will provide services to help refugees and vulnerable newcomers settle and adapt to life in the country.
In addition, the government will invest $14 million on management services for 14 service providers to assist vulnerable newcomers, which also includes a pilot project aimed at bolstering Francophone case management.
The investment includes $21 million to add nine new Resettlement Assistance Program service providers in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and New Brunswick. This will help relieve pressure on the 32 existing Resettlement Assistance Program service providers.
As newcomers adjust to life in Canada, they face many challenges including finding a place to live, finding a job, and learning a new language. However, newcomers like Afghan refugees who arrive in Canada will be even better supported with these new investments.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated:
"Newcomers and refugees have long been the motor of Canada’s society and economy, and our country has a proud tradition of being an international leader in resettlement and integration. This success could not be achieved without the help of vital settlement service organizations that help newcomers learn Canada’s official languages, find jobs and build successful lives in their new communities."
The minister added that,
"Our investment today will be keyThe Canadian government announced an investment of over $35 million in 2022 to expand resettlement capacity and settlement services for newcomers to Canada's small towns and rural communities. to enhancing access to support services in smaller and rural communities. These services will support newcomer families and provide the tools for their long-term success in the years ahead."