Myreille Matsika-Lang; Information and Referral Specialist Newcomer Information Centre
The Newcomer Information Centre of the YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region is a first stop for newcomers. We are working hard to keep providing services to the community at this difficult time.
We are in uncharted territories, and this can be a challenge for anyone let alone newcomers trying to adapt to a new country and culture. The Newcomer Information Center’s multilingual staff is committed to its mission of service and while moving to virtual offices to help slow down the spread of the COVID-19 virus, remains available via phone and email to assist with settlement and immigration matters.
Together with our community partners (Catholic Centre for Immigrants, Somali Centre for Family Services, Jewish Family Services, Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization, Conseil Economique et Social d’Ottawa-Carleton, Lebanese and Arab Social Services Agency, Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre) we will continue to help with immigration applications, referral to services, settlement questions and orientation as well as tax preparation and G1 and Citizenship test preparation and more.
Similar efforts are being undertaken by the Y Employment Services, whose dedicated staff has implemented a seamless transition to the virtual world to continue providing job search assistance to the community and newcomers alike.
Though protecting the community is forefront in all our minds, we recognize that other matters are as pressing, such as: family reunification, extending your temporary resident visa, applying for EI or simply finding one’s footing in this new country. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is here to help you navigate through it all.
We are looking forward to assisting you via email at [email protected] or by phone at 343-961-7120 until we can resume normal operations.
In the meantime, stay safe, stay home and welcome to Canada!!