The government of Canada announced the expansion of mental health services for Afghan and Ukrainian newcomers’ kids on June 20, 2022.
Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that the government signed an agreement with Kids Help Phone, which will provide counselling services for Afghan and Ukrainian youth in four languages: Dari, Pashto, Ukrainian, and Russian.
This initiative is a response to the urgent need faced by children fleeing conflicts in Afghanistan and Ukraine. Kids Help Phone has been offering health services to children and youth in Canada since 1989.
IRCC funds more than 500 organizations in Canada to provide settlement services to permanent residents, including resettled refugees, and to Ukrainians arriving in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel. These organizations provide direct assistance to youth.
These include:
help during and after school
recreational activities
leadership and mentorship programs
help developing skills and preparing for employment
The IRCC also continues to partner with provinces, territories, and service providers across the country to welcome new immigrants and help them adjust to life in Canada.