YMCA of Greater Toronto
Learn or improve your English and French, attend information sessions to get to know your new community better, get settlement advice and assistance; all free!
Meet friendly staff and get the support you need to get started. Do you:
The YMCA is the first stop for thousands of new immigrants every year!
Newcomer Information Centre
The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre is the first choice for thousands of newcomers every year when they are looking for information to start their new life in Canada. Our friendly, multilingual and knowledgeable staff provides free access to information and referral services.
Language Assessment and Referral Services
The YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Service provide immigrants in Canada with English and/or French language assessment for government-funded programs at no cost.
Newcomer Youth Leadership Development Program
The Newcomer Youth Leadership Development (NYLD) program is designed to help newcomer youth and parents have a positive settlement experience. NYLD offers safe, supportive and empowering spaces where you and your family can become active and engaged new Canadians.
Pre-Arrival Services
Next Stop Canada, YMCA's Pre-Arrival Settlement service, offers online settlement information, orientations and referral services to eligible individuals living overseas with the intention to come to Canada. We help participants prepare for immigration and will create a direct link to settlement services in Canada.
Do I have to wear a mask?
Yes, you will need to wear a mask or face covering when inside the building.
Will you have hand sanitizer available?
Hand sanitizer will be available in multiple, high-touch areas throughout the building. You are also encouraged to wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
Should I wipe my own area down?
At this time you will not be able to work at the centre. The in-person meeting area will be wiped down before and after meetings.
Will I need to have my temperature taken as part of a health screening? What else will occur as part of the health screening?
We will not be conducting temperature checks.
When are you re-opening?
Varies by location. Please contact the location nearest you for more information.
Will the Y be limiting the number of visitors?
Yes. During this phase of re-opening, we are accepting only a limited number of booked appointments.
How far in advance can I book my appointment?
Please contact the location nearest you.
When should I arrive for my appointment?
Please arrive no earlier than 5 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment to avoid crowding in the office.
What programs will you be running and what amenities will be available?
We will continue to provide the great virtual options we have been since March. In-person – one on one – meetings is the only other in person activity we are offering currently.
Who is eligible for a Language Assessment appointment?
At this time, appointments are only available for clients who are not able to access online assessments due to literacy and digital capacity needs
Who is eligible for a Newcomer Information and Referral appointment?
At this time, appointments are only available for clients who are not able to access online assessments due to literacy and digital capacity needs
If you are open, why aren't you offering all of your programs?
In order to minimize risk by allowing for physical distancing, we are limiting the number of people in our centres during phase 1 of our re-opening.
Can I bring my own materials (e.g laptop, notebooks, pens)?
Yes.
As Syria’s humanitarian crisis unfolded, Alaa and Nabil Al Hawa made the painful decision to flee with their children, Mohamad, 15, Assia, 12, Omama, 8, and Nawras, 4. “It was a hard leap to get to this new life in Canada,” says Nabil.
But they quickly started to make connections in their new community, joining the Cooper Koo Family YMCA with support from our financial assistance program.
At the Y, the whole family swims together; Nabil volunteers at the front desk; and Mohamad is making friends through our free Newcomer Youth Leadership Development program.
For the first time in a long time, the Al Hawa kids just get to be kids. “Our ambition is to build a good future here in Canada,” says Alaa. Nabil agrees: “Our children belong, they can be happy, successful, and contribute. Here, anything is possible.”
When you give to the Y, you help families like the Al Hawas get through challenging transitions and build brighter futures.
Learn More About Our Charitable ImpactDid you know that the Y is a charity that helps people from all walks of life, at all ages and life stages? Explore all our programs and services and find the best options to keep you and your family shining bright.
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