Settlement Services

French – The Newcomer Today/Leader Tomorrow Youth Leadership program empowers newcomer youth (ages 13-25) to overcome integration challenges and build leadership skills. The program is delivered 8 times a year. This program is available in person and online. Key offerings include:

• Responsibility & Personal Growth: Encouraging self-esteem, effective communication, and social skills.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Promoting understanding and fostering cross-cultural exchanges.
• Community Engagement: Providing volunteer opportunities to earn high school credits.
• Job Skills: Offering resume and interview preparation.
• Recreation: Exposure to Canadian outdoor activities and culture, such as swimming, basketball, etc.
• Mentorship & Leadership: Participants are guided through development opportunities to explore their potential.

This program serves newcomer youth and communities in Ottawa, addressing barriers like language, job readiness, and lack of parental support. By connecting youth and parents through schools and community partners, the program ensures a welcoming, supportive environment where youth can grow and thrive. The program runs making it a trusted resource for Ottawa’s newcomer community.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form

Please contact Sarah Al Hemyari, Settlement Youth Outreach Worker.

In-office availability: Wednesday and Thursday
In-office location: JFS Ottawa, 2255 Carling Ave., Suite 301
Email address: Salhemyari@jfsottawa.com
Work phone and extension: 613-722-2225 ext 306
Work cellphone number: 613-769-5065
Languages Served: English, Arabic

To access our full calendar of Settlement events click HERE

Join our online sessions to review the Discover Canada booklet with explanations in English (French and Somali can be available), Engage in interactive Q&A discussions to deepen your understanding and prepare for your citizenship journey. Sessions are online on Thursdays. English CLB Level 3 and above is required.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form

For services in English, Arabic or French, please contact Donia Jomaa, Settlement Outreach Worker.

In-office availability: Monday
In-office location: South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre (SEOCHC) Hunt Club, 3320 Paul Anka Drive
Email address: djomaa@jfsottawa.com
Work cellphone number: 613-769-3810
Languages: Served English, Arabic, French

For services in English, French or Somali, please contact Fathia Warsama, Settlement Outreach Worker.

In-office availability: Monday and Tuesday
In-office locations:

Mondays: Carlington Community Health Centre, 900 Merivale Rd.
Tuesdays: Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, 1365 Richmond Rd.

Email address: fwarsama@jfsottawa.com

Work cellphone number: 613-301-4073
Languages Served: French, English, Somali

To access our full calendar of Settlement events click HERE

Our digital support services help newcomers access online settlement resources, overcoming barriers related to technology access and digital literacy. Tailored language, gender, and culturally specific support is available to ensure inclusive learning. Key offerings include:

• Power BI Workshop: Learn in-demand data analysis software from an experienced consultant. Limited spots are available. Windows laptop and working proficiency in English required.
• Digital Literacy Workshops & Individual Support: Enhance your tech skills with training in computer and smartphone use, Microsoft Office, online safety, account setup, e-banking, insurance claims, and more. Group sessions are online; individual sessions are online or in-person.
• Digital Device Lending: Short-term loans of tablets and Chromebooks are available for settlement use. Eligibility is based on financial need, with guidance provided on affordable device options.
• Mandarin Speaking Seniors: Focused on basic skills for independent life in Ottawa. Topics include: transit, Zoom, translation, email, texting, voicemail, basic computer/smartphone skills, troubleshooting, fraud prevention and avoiding bad online choices.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form.

Please contact Emily Xia, Digital Support Coordinator.

In-office availability: Wednesday
In-office location: JFS Ottawa, 2255 Carling Ave., Suite 301
Email address: exia@jfsottawa.com
Work extension: 613-722-2225 ext 321
Work cellphone number: 343-998-9679
Languages Served: English, Mandarin

To access our full calendar of Settlement events click HERE

This home and community-based program supports children and parents in navigating integration challenges. Activities include theatre, arts, and crafts to help children express emotions and cultural identity. Delivered three times a year, with a condensed summer format and online sessions available for families with mobility challenges. Key offerings include:

• After-School Home Visits: A six-month program helping newcomer children adapt to Canadian schools and communities. Through drama, arts, and crafts, children develop communication skills, language proficiency, and emotional intelligence. Conducted in Arabic and English.
• Life Skills Activity: A 4 to 6-session program in collaboration with schools, teaching essential skills such as listening, problem-solving, cooperation, time management, and addressing bullying.
• Greenhouse Summer Camp: A fun and interactive camp for newcomer and refugee children to connect with peers through picnics, cooking classes, arts and crafts, and sports competitions. Families are encouraged to participate, fostering a sense of community.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form.

Please Contact Liza Maarouf, Child and Family Settlement Outreach Worker.

In-office availability: Monday
Office location: JFS Ottawa, 2255 Carling Ave., Suite 301
Email address: lmaarouf@jfsottawa.com
Work extension: 613-722-2225 Ext 505
Work cellphone number: 613-867-3361
Languages Served: English, Arabic

To access our full calendar of Settlement events click HERE

Our programs support newcomer women in navigating life transitions and building a sense of belonging in Ottawa. Key offerings include:

Women’s Art for Integration Program:

• Empower women to share their stories through creative arts, promoting anti-oppression and well-being.
• Breaks social isolation and fosters a sense of community.
• Provides education on Canada, Indigenous culture, and cultural bridging.

Community Kitchen for Somali Women:

• Offers nutritional cooking strategies in partnership with the Ottawa Food Bank.

Culture-Specific Peer Support Groups:

• Supports integration by providing resources on education, children’s activities, and pursuing higher education.

Recreational & Social Gatherings:

• Women-only swims, cooking classes, ESL conversation groups, sewing circles, hikes, and museum trips, etc.

These programs are designed to reduce isolation, connect newcomer women with settled immigrants, and share valuable information on topics such as career pathways, healthcare, financial literacy, and more. Family-friendly events are available on PD days, and most sessions occur on Fridays.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form.

Please contact Emily Xia, Digital Literacy Coordinator.

In-office availability: Wednesday
In-office location: 2255 Carling Ave Suite 301
Email address: exia@jfsottawa.com
Work extension: 613-722-2225 ext 321
Work cellphone number: 343-998-9679
Languages Served: English, Mandarin

To access our full calendar of Settlement events click HERE

This free clinic is for Newcomers, Permanent Residents and Convention Refugees.

We can assist in preparing tax returns for the current & previous years. Virtual and by appointment only and is available all year round. Services available in: English, French, Arabic, Urdu, Farsi, and German.

Registration link: Webpage Registration Form.

Please Contact Donia Jomaa, Settlement Outreach Worker.

Email address: djomaa@jfsottawa.com
Work cellphone number: 613-769-3810
Languages Served: English, Arabic, French, Dari, Farsi, German and Urdu

Our team of professionals are happy to help you explore these programs available in the community. 

HELP WITH APPLYING FOR:
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Canada Dental Care Plan
Christmas Exchange (Food Hamper or Gift Certificate)
Displaced Persons and Refugees Transit Pass Program
Driver’s License
Employment Insurance (EI) Application
Family Doctor Waiting List
GST/HST Credit and Canada Carbon Rebate
OC Transpo Equipass
Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
Ontario Works (OW)
Rent Supplement Program
Sharing in Student Success (School Supplies for Children)
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Social Housing Registry
Toy Mountain

If you require assistance with any of these services, complete the form HERE.

REFERRALS TO:
2SLGBTQI+ Services
Childcare Fee Subsidy
Clothing Referral
Community Centres
Dress for Success
Employment Services
Food Bank Referral
Furniture Bank
Hand in Hand (Subsidy for Recreation Activity)
Legal Servies and Legal Aid
Post-Secondary Education
Recreation Activities
Snowsuit Fund

If you require assistance with any of these services, complete the form HERE.

ACCESSING GOVERNMENT SERVICES:
English and French Class
Health and Mental Health Care
Language Assessment
School Registration

If you require assistance with any of these services, complete the form HERE.

ASSISTANCE AND INFORMATION FOR THE FOLLOWING IMMIGRATION ISSUES:
Canadian Citizenship Application for Permanent Resident
CUAET Related Immigration Issues
Permanent Resident Application for Protected Person/Convention Refugee
Permanent Resident Card
Sponsorship Information
Work and Study Permit for Protected Person and Special Visa Holder

If you require assistance with any of these services, complete the form HERE.

GENERAL INFORMATION:
Community Connections
Life in Ottawa
CUAET Related Information
Financial Services

If you require assistance with any of these services, complete the form HERE.