Citizenship and Immigration Canada Continues to Expand Settlement Programs

Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has recently issued a call for proposals for new language training, settlement, and resettlement services. Such programs are integral to helping immigrants integrate into their new homes.

Proposals will be accepted for projects that will begin in 2013. The projects can be local, regional, national, or international in scope. Settlement funds are directed towards new immigrants, while resettlement funds are set aside for refugees.

CIC has stated that “Services [will] include language training, information/referrals, help finding employment that matches newcomers’ skills and education, and help establishing networks/contacts in their communities”.

Funds for such services have nearly tripled in the last seven years, rising from about $200 million in 2005-06 to almost $600 million this year. These figures do not include similar services in the province of Quebec.

Most provinces operate federally-directed settlement programs. However, Quebec, Manitoba, and British Columbia provide these services at a provincial level. Regardless, organizations from any province are welcome to apply provided their projects intend to address issues of national or international scope.