Your First Winter in Canada
Depending on which province you are in, winter in Canada can be extremely cold with the lowest temperature of -76°F (-60°C) or mild with the lowest temperature of 21°F (-6°C).
The Cultural Mosaic
Canada is a country that is full of diversity, where people from countries around the world live and work peacefully in an inclusive, fair, and equitable society. Therefore, Canada is often called a “Cultural Mosaic” – a mix of different ethnic groups, languages, and cultures.
Red Poppy: The Symbol of Remembrance Day
As a newcomer, you may be wondering why Canadians wear a Red Poppy in their left lapel; it’s impossible not to notice it, especially in November. The Red Poppy, which grows on the First World War battlefields in Flanders, in Belgium and northern France, is the symbol of Remembrance Day. This memorial day is observed…
Ways to Improve Your English Language Skills
When you move to a new country, knowing how to speak their language is beneficial as it can help you adapt better. Most newcomers in Canada want to improve their English language skills for the following reasons: to find a job, pursue higher education, or better integrate into the new society. Speaking in a language…
Celebrating 14 years of the Library Settlement Partnerships
This month of October Toronto Public Library is celebrating 14 years of welcoming and helping newcomers with Library Settlement Partnerships (LSP)! The theme of this year’s celebration is: We Belong, which invites us to bridge understanding across all groups, celebrate inclusion, and promote a sense of belonging for all. Date: Thursday, October 21, 2-4 pm. Location: Online via Zoom. Link: To be…
Let’s Save on Energy: Energy Affordability Program
Save on Energy, Energy Affordability Program (EAP) is a government incentive program that provides real support to struggling individuals and families by helping them lower their monthly electricity costs and increase their home comfort while bringing a positive impact on our environment. Ontarians responsible for paying their monthly electricity bill as a homeowner or tenant…
July 1 is Canada Day!
Canada Day (French: Fête du Canada) is one of the most celebrated holidays across the country. And the reason is very simple; it’s the national day of Canada.
March Break 2021
This blog was prepared by YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Margaret Wong. In Ontario, March Break, also known as Spring Break, and it usually falls on the third week in March. It is a holiday for elementary and secondary school students. Typically, families will use this break time to do fun activities…