Program Types: New to Canada,

New to Canada – Support for LGBTQ+ Refugees and Newcomers

We aim to provide LGBTQ+ newcomers with the resources and support they need to thrive in their new environment and to facilitate their successful integration into Canadian society.

Who can join:

  • LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, refugee claimants, convention refugees, protected persons, government-assisted refugees, and permanent residents (18+ in age, and living in Toronto, GTA, or Southern Ontario)
  • Live-in caregivers (18+ and living in Toronto, the GTA, or Southern Ontario).

Supports offered:

How to Register:

1. STEP 1 – Complete our New to Canada online registration form: Click here to Register

If you require assistance with completing the online form, you are welcome to stop by during our New to Canada Drop-in hours on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.

2. STEP 2 – Attend a Newcomer Information Session

Attendance at this session is mandatory. You will have the opportunity to sign up for the session while completing our intake form and can choose to participate either In-Person or online.

 

If you are not an asylum seeker, you will receive an email after filling out the online registration form, connecting you to the appropriate staff, services, or programs.

 

Questions? Need help? Email NewToCanada@The519.org or call 437-253-7112. Leave a message with your name, current immigration status, contact number and your request.

New to Canada Programs

We offer groups, workshops, and events. We also offer individual guidance, referrals and help with documents and applications. All our programs and services are free. All our programs and services are free.

  • A Place to Talk: A supportive space for LGBTQ+ refugee claimants to connect, discuss challenges, and practice grounding, without formal counseling.
  • Among Friends: A weekly program for LGBTQ+ Refugee Claimants, offering a supportive space for socializing, building networks, and accessing vital settlement information through presentations on immigration, employment, healthcare and more.
  • Black Health & Wellness Hub: Semi-monthly group about Black health and wellness, focusing on the various support systems within our community.
  • Breakthrough: A series of social events by and for LGBTQ+ Refugee Claimants, offering fun, connection, and something for everyone.
  • My Food 4U: A monthly program where LGBTQ newcomers share food, stories, and cultural experiences to build community, support integration, and offer skill-building opportunities like cooking workshops or language exchange.
  • New to Canada Drop-in: In-person brief support for LGBTQ+ individuals who are new to Canada. No appointment is required.
  • Newcomer Information Session: A mandatory orientation session for LGBTQ+ newcomers to get an introduction into the work, ground principles and values of The 519, and Settlement Department in particular.
  • Next Steps: Semi-monthly information and activities group serving LGBTQ+ newcomers who are convention refugees or permanent residents residing in Canada for less than 5 years – twice a month
  • Sew My Mind: An affirming space for folks to discuss a variety of culturally affirming and self-help topics while learning a new skill.
  • Space for Us: A space for Arabic-Speaking queer and trans LGBTQ+ newcomers. This program offers a space to meet peers, make new friends, build community, and bond over shared experiences.
  • Stardust Sessions: A program designed to provide 10 LGBTQ+ newcomers with expressive arts-based therapeutic strategies to promote mental health and well-being – held over 6 interconnected sessions
Register for this program

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