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Refugees & New Canadians

Between 1996 and 2001, the Kitchener-Waterloo region added over 7,000 visible minorities to its nearly 500,000 population.  Ranked the third most diverse city in Canada, Kitchener has proven to be an excellent location for Global Youth Network staff to live and be actively involved with the growing population of new Canadians and refugees. 

• "Canada offers refugee protection to people in Canada who fear persecution or who may be at risk of torture or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment, and are unwilling or unable to return to their home country.” (Government site)

Refugees can be referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, can be sponsored by private groups, or can claim refugee status directly upon arrival to Canada.  In 2006, 608 adults arrived in Kitchener, seeking protection and here claimed refugee status.  The Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Support is a small organization in Kitchener striving to help these people with the claim process and helping them adjust to life in Canada.

The K-W Reception Centre is a residence where refugees and new Canadians stay for at least 10 days until they find their housing in the K-W area.  They are provided basic services such as help with opening a bank account and applying for Ontario Health Insurance and a Canadian Social Insurance Number.  They also receive an Orientation for living in the K-W area.

Global Youth Network staff are regularly involved with assisting these newcomers as they adjust to life in Canada.  Please contact our Kitchener office globalyouthnet@yahoo.ca for volunteer information.

Other Useful Links

Special Report on Multiculturalism in Waterloo Region