Immigrant and Refugee Services Association Prince Edward Island

Newcomers are paired with an individual who is an established resident in the community so they can spend time together. Volunteers and clients may be single, couples or families. Matches are made based on similar interests, location and other factors. The program helps newcomers: Adjus...

Provides an online directory with contact information for a wide variety of ethno-cultural organizations in Epekwitk / PEI. The contact information included in the directory is considered reliable but is not guaranteed.

Connects newcomers to Canada with settled resident volunteers who wish to invite newcomers into their home for the holiday season so they can experience Canadian holiday traditions by sharing a meal, seasonal activity or party invitation together. Typically individuals and their hosts get tog...

Group brings together newcomer men and males who are established in the community to build relationships, socialize and participate in activities. Activities take place roughly once every three months and vary based on the interests of the current members. Examples of past events include: ...

Provides an opportunity for immigrant women to be social, make friends, practice language skills, and learn more about Canadian culture and other cultures. Group is hosted by female IRSA staff and volunteers, and activities are held from once per month (summer) to one or more times per week d...

Provides a path way to permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada (PEI, NS, NB, NF) who are willing to work and live in one of the four provinces. AIP aims to help Canadian employers to hire qualified ...

Employment counsellors help newcomers to Canada prepare for job searching in PEI by sharing information about the Canadian job market and opportunities, identifying educational options, and explaining how to become licensed in a specific profession. Includes: Providing information on em...

Workshops are offered to newcomers on topics about employment and job seeking. Includes: Canadian Workplace Culture Refugee Employment Orientation Alternate Careers Day Networking for Success Newcomer Entrepreneur Program Job Fair Preparation Social Media and Your Care...

Staff help new immigrant families with school-aged children to figure out children's needs and requirements for school-related matters. Includes: Needs assessment Setting up language assessments Supporting parents with the school enrollment process Arranging interpreter service...

Provides an opportunity for newcomer youth to learn life skills, practice their English, learn about Canadian social norms, and learn more about Canada. Activities include: Art instruction Environmental studies Physical activities Field trips Overnight camp experience for te...

Provides a variety of programs and activities for newcomer school-aged children. Includes: Social and educational workshops: Activities and information sessions exploring age-specific themes that create an educational and inclusive space for immigrant students to meet, learn and have fu...

Helps low-income clients apply for external funding to allow children and youth to participate in sports programs in PEI. Also offers a program to loan equipment needed for some organized sports.

Free English tutoring service is provided in partnership with the public library service across Epekwitk / PEI. Volunteers help adult newcomers practice English. School-aged children have access to EAL tutoring within the school system.

Provides interpretation services for in the following areas: Initial intake at IRSA Completion of applications for essential documents and services (SIN, PEI Health Cards, Canada Revenue Agency forms, etc.) Medical, vision and dental appointments School registration New stud...

Provides translation services. Includes: Foreign driver's licence Employment-related documents and more Translation of any document other than a driver's licence is provided at a flat rate of 20 cents per word.

Provides guidance and support to refugees within their first 12 weeks of arrival. Topics vary depending on the needs of clients but may include hygiene, apartment living, parenting norms in Canada, or public transportation. Workshops are also offered that are open to all newcomers regardless ...

Individuals preparing for the citizenship test attend four classes to cover material in the "Discover Canada" citizenship booklet produced by the Government of Canada. Sample tests, study aids and other resources are also included during the classes. The course is generally held at IRSA'...

Counselling support workers help newcomers deal with challenges of adapting to life in Canada. The counsellor can help with pre-existing or new concerns and help with problem solving and working towards goals and personal skills. Counselling supports are given at IRSA offices or at client...

Intake Workers help newcomers by determining eligibility for services, conducting a needs assessment, and developing a settlement plan for each eligible client. Services include: Collecting the personal information needed to provide further services Initial help applying for certain ...

Helps new immigrants to Canada though orientation, translation, interpretation, referrals to community resources, para-professional counselling, and general information. Specific areas of assistance may include but are not limited to: Immigration and travel: Help applying PR, changing i...

Provides information for newcomers to Canada on various topics including: Immigration process and documentation Citizenship Finances Housing Food and shopping Transportation Communication Health Employment and education Legal matters Culture and community ...

Provides parenting workshops for new immigrants as a part of counselling services. Participants have an opportunity to meet other parents, share experiences, and receive support. Covered topics include: Active parenting skills Building family relationships Overcoming challenges re...

Provides temporary accommodations, an initial assessment and the delivery of orientation and information needed in order to begin the resettlement process, as well as linkage to other existing programs and services.