Newcomers to Saskatchewan now have access to welcome centres across the province, including one in Yorkton. These 11 hubs will provide newcomers with access to relevant information, community resources and government services.
"The Regional Newcomer Gateways are an expression of welcome to newcomers from across Canada and the world," Advanced Education, Employment and Labour and Minister responsible for Immigration Rob Norris said at a recent grand opening event. "The Gateways are a first stop for newcomers and help to support them in settling into their new communities."
In the 2010-11 fiscal year the Regional Newcomer Gateway program has allocated $1.8 million to 11 gateways strategically located across the province. The centres, which are in partnership with local organizations, will co-ordinate the delivery of vital services to newcomers, such as language assessments and early settlement supports, and will identify local solutions to gaps in information and services in their region. The Regional Newcomer Gateways also provide flexible services so that newcomers are able to access services in the evening or on weekends.
In 2009, 186 Saskatchewan communities welcomed more than 11,000 total net migrants internationally and inter-provincially.
Earlier this year, the Government of Saskatchewan launched a new immigration website that plays a significant role in both attracting newcomers from abroad and helping them to settle successfully in Saskatchewan.
Yorkton's gateway is provided through the Saskatchewan Abilities Council and it serves 16 additional communities.
For more information, visit www.saskimmigrationcanada.ca.
