Welcome to Toronto
Resources for Newcomers and Refugees
A Warm Welcome!
Welcome to Mount Dennis Baptist Church! We are delighted to have you as a part of our community, as a church family we cherish diversity and inclusivity. No matter where you come from or what your story is, you are welcome here. We are committed to supporting you as you settle into your new home and start this new chapter in your life.
Settling In Toronto: Here are some initial steps you need to take
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN): A SIN is necessary to work in Canada or to access government programs and benefits. Click here for details on the application process.
Register your children in school: In Toronto, all children aged 4 to 18 have the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status. You will find information about registering with the public Catholic schools by clicking here. Information about registering in public secular schools can be found by clicking here.
Seek employment: Understanding your rights as an employee in Canada is important. There are numerous individuals, organizations and associations to support you on your journey toward meaningful employment. One organization located in the Mount Dennis Community is the Learning Enrichment Centre. They provide a number of settlement services including resume building and work search workshops. You can learn more about their services for job-seekers by clicking here.
Access healthcare services: Ontario has a publicly funded healthcare system called OHIP, but not all newcomers qualify for access to publicly funded healthcare. By clicking here, you can find information about what is covered and who qualifies.
Learn English or French if necessary: Language can be a key barrier for newcomers. Toronto offers various resources to improve English language proficiency. There are both free and paid options for language development in Toronto. Access to free options, such as those provided by the Learning Enrichment Foundation and the Toronto District School Board is determined by your immigration status.
Community Resources: Our city is rich with organizations offering assistance to newcomers and refugees. Services range from language training and job search support to housing services and legal aid. We host a range of programs at Mount Dennis Baptist Church to help you adapt to your new surroundings, including English conversation classes and cultural integration groups. We also recommend getting involved in our various ministries to meet fellow believers and form strong bonds within our community.
Government Links: Here are some essential links to government resources to support your journey:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): Provides important information regarding citizenship applications and the latest immigration news. [Visit their website](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship.html)
Toronto Newcomer Office: Offers a range of resources specifically for newcomers to Toronto, including settlement services and language support. [Visit their website](https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/community-partners/newcomer-services/)
Settlement.Org: An excellent resource for newcomers to Ontario, offering advice and information on a wide range of topics. [Visit their website](https://settlement.org/)
Church Services and Programs: We invite you to join us for our regular services on Sundays at 11 am. We also offer various ministries like the Choir, Men’s and Women’s Ministries, Children’s and Youth Ministries, Prayer Team, and, of course, our Newcomers and Refugees Ministry. These gatherings are wonderful opportunities to connect with fellow community members and find spiritual support.
Volunteer Opportunities: As you settle in, consider volunteering, it is an excellent way to get involved, meet new people, and give back to the community. There are numerous roles available within our church, ranging from ushering to participating in our outreach programs where you can lend your skills and time.
Contact Information: For any queries or assistance, feel free to reach out to us by email at hello@mountdennisbaptist.ca or call us at +1 (647) 980-6616 (including Whatsapp). We are here to support you in any way we can.