Building Community and Connection: Newcomer Support Group for Hispanic Women
This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist and the Sense of Belonging Program Facilitator, Diana Correa.
In May 2024, the YMCA GTA Newcomer Information Centre started a project for Hispanic newcomer women called the “Sense of Belonging”. This project aims to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere to foster meaningful connections and promote a sense of inclusion, support, and acceptance. We want the participants to feel a welcoming environment that reflects Canadian culture, helping them feel at home while also providing essential information about settlement, employment, education, and life in Canada while improving their English skills.
At the initial creation of this project, the community responded with enthusiasm and excitement about the formation of the group. Within the Hispanic/Latino community, there are only a few groups that focus specifically on women and operate in Spanish. As a result, many members highlighted the importance of creating a space where these women can share experiences, access resources, and find support in navigating a new cultural and social environment.
The group’s establishment was seen as a positive step toward empowering Hispanic women new to Canada. In general, it sparked dialogue around issues such as identity, sense of belonging, and integration. As the group grew, the community’s reactions evolved as its impact became more visible.
The group has become popular within the Hispanic/Latino community. We have had guest speakers from different organizations who have joined this initiative and celebrated the creation of the women’s group. As the group continues to meet online twice a week, many have gained increased self-confidence, improved communication skills, and a stronger sense of purpose. Over time, the group has become more engaged and motivated.
At the beginning of the program, some of them were uncertain about their goals and their ability to contribute. However, there has been a noticeable increase in participation and initiative. Most importantly, the group has developed a strong sense of community. There is genuine camaraderie and a solid support system in place, which has made a tremendous difference. They are learning not only from the program content but also from one another. This mutual support has created an environment conducive to shared growth and empowerment.
Over the months, the members have shared positive feedback about the group. They are actively engaging with the topics and expressing excitement about each upcoming session. Many have even requested that the group continue as a form of daily support.
As the group developed connections with one another, they sparked the enthusiasm to meet in person. Recognizing this need, the holiday season was the perfect time to organize this event and facilitate an in-person meeting. A potluck was organized, and many of them were excited to share their food.
Activities were planned to help everyone get to know each other better and to enhance the sense of belonging within the community, which made the group concept feel even more real. At the end of the event, we closed with small gifts to show our gratitude for their commitment to the group.
One memorable moment was when they were able to write down and share their achievements for 2024 and their future goals with other ladies. They felt supported and not alone in the challenges they faced as newcomer women.
Are you a newcomer to Canada? Take advantage of the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre’s free settlement information to help you navigate your new life in Canada.
