In Canada, a Welcoming Environment and Community Supports Help Syrian Students and Families Thrive

Canada has long been seen as a country welcoming to refugees. In recent years, there have been 10,000 refugees from Syria, settle in the Ontario province. While schools concentrate on improving their English language skills and reading and math performance, there are more than 200 settlement centers that help new immigrants integrate into the broader society. They’re often called a “one stop shop” for immigrants, where settlement workers help show families how to do everything from access the health system and apply for jobs to how to dress for the winter and use a computer. Many settlement centers have offices in schools so it is easier for families to access services.