Starting a new life in Canada is a challenge

Having a friend who knows the community can be a big help.

Would you like to make a new Canadian friend?

Your local Host Program can match you with a Canadian volunteer from your community. You will spend time with each other every week, and this will give you a chance to practice English conversation. What you talk about and the activities you do together will depend on your interests. This may include learning about:

• Community services
• Schools
  
• Looking for a job
  
• Shopping, public transit or banking
• Recreational and social activities
• Canadian society and culture

Your new friend can not give you a job, a place to live, or money.

Host volunteers can help you learn about your new community. They don’t replace the work that a professional Settlement Worker can do for you.

Canadians who volunteer for the Host Program enjoy making new friends and learning about the culture and experiences of newcomers. They understand that everyone in Canada benefits when new immigrants feel welcomed and get some friendly help during the early settlement period.

Host Group Activities and Special Programs
It might take a while for the Host Program to find a compatible volunteer to match with you. Most Host Programs offer Conversation Circles, and many have other group activities. You may be able to join one of these group activities sooner, or you may find that a group activity is a better match with your needs and your ability to make a time commitment.

Some organizations have Youth Host (newcomer-mentor matches and/or group activities for young people). Some have special Host Programs for women or seniors. Professional mentoring is available in some locations.

You do not have to pay anything to take part in the Host Program.

How Can I Join the Host Program?