The challenges facing newcomers to Canada are significant. These include basic needs (getting home from the airport, filling out application forms for a social insurance number or health form, how to navigate transit, how to shop) to life essentials (finding employment, language training, lodging, education,) and personal requirements (feeling safe and secure, building a community, overcoming trauma). Surrounded by a new culture, environment, having community supports and friends can help newly arrived residents find the confidence and support to survive and even thrive. The figure below highlights some of key areas of focus in each phase of settlement.
