In a few weeks, we will reach the end of 2021. The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre would like to thank you for your continuous support and trust in using our newcomer service and our community partners for the ongoing collaboration. Please take a look at our office hours during the holiday seasons:

• December 24 – 9 am to 12 pm
• December 27 & 28 – closed in lieu of Christmas Day & Boxing Day
• December 29 & 30 – 9 am to 5 pm
• December 31 – 9 am to 12 pm
• January 3 – closed in lieu of New Year’s Day

We will resume our regular office hours on January 4, 2022.

If you are new to Ontario or have some settlement related questions, book your virtual appointment to speak with our Information & Referral Specialist.

At the end of the year, let us reflect on our life for the past 365 days – things we are grateful for – no matter how small it is, and lessons we learned from our mistakes. We have been busy with work, house chores, taking care of other people, the ongoing pandemic, and the never-ending to-do list. So let’s pat ourselves at the back for all the efforts we’ve made and the obstacles we’ve had to overcome this year.

Whatever you plan to do this holiday season, here are some reminders that I want to share:

• Schedule some “me-time” to recharge mentally and physically, away from social media and computer screen whenever possible. Especially since the last 22 months, when almost everything goes virtual. It is essential to take care of yourselves first, disconnect from technology and allow yourself to have some time off from your busy schedule.

“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”

Eleanor Brown

• Spend the holidays with people who care about you, friends and family who accept you for who you are, who can bring the best in you. Give them a call, and tell them how grateful you are for them.

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

Marcel Proust

• Plan and set your intentions for next year. When writing a new year’s resolution, I noticed that setting small specific goals are more achievable than setting one big goal. If you ever struggle to accomplish your new year’s resolution, read our blog post about this topic here. 

“The secret of changing your life is in your intentions. Wishing, hoping and goal setting cannot accomplish change without intention.”

Dr. Wayne Dyer

Even though we still celebrate the holidays with some restrictions this year, we hope the holiday season will bring you and your family joy and meaningful memories. Have a safe, healthy, and memorable 2022! May the coming new year brings us new hope for the future.