Skip to main content

Settlement

We’re making sure newcomers have the support they need to build connections and a bright future in their new home.

Newcomers play a crucial role in the economic, social and civic vitality of the GTA. We’re committed to ensuring they have the support they need to build connections and a bright future in their new home. Any way we can.

THE CHALLENGE

The GTA is Canada’s largest hub for newcomers, yet too many face barriers that hold them back. Discrimination in the housing and job market. Racism. Language barriers. Limited social networks. These challenges don’t just affect newcomers’ well-being — they put people at greater risk of poverty and limit their opportunities to thrive. And when newcomers are excluded, our entire region misses out on the skills and experience they bring. A stronger GTA means that everyone who calls this place home has the chance to succeed. And we’re more determined than ever to make that vision a reality.

Red background with fingerprints

4 out of 5

Torontonians will be immigrants or children of immigrants by 2041

Red background with fingerprints

67 cents

Immigrants with permanent, full-time work in Toronto earn $0.67 for every dollar their Canadian-born peers make

Red background with fingerprints

20%

of newcomers report high levels of depression compared to 14% of non-newcomers

A NEW START SHOULD COME WITH SUPPORT, NOT SETBACKS

We’re making sure newcomers have the support they need by strengthening our network of community agencies and their 49 settlement programs. That means newcomers can access financial literacy and language training, immigration assistance, and employment and housing support as they navigate a new home. We’re safeguarding spaces where newcomers can build connections that combat isolation and support mental well-being. That also means expanding Community Hubs that bring social services under one roof while providing culturally relevant food, job leads and a sense of security. Making our neighbourhoods feel like home for everyone takes collaboration. That’s why we’re rolling up our sleeves with government and community partners to plan for the needs of immigrants and refugees, advocate for solutions and close service gaps. Because when newcomers arrive, they should have every opportunity to thrive.

Fingerprints on a black background
A woman named Shenawar,wearing glasses and a striped shirt, smiles at the camera.

I felt very good about coming to Canada, but for the first two months, life was really hard for me. Whenever we have any problem, I go to Rexdale. They tell me what options are available to me, so I know how to proceed in the future. I got to know staff there from my culture, who speak the same language as me, so I felt comfortable.

Shenawar, Client, Rexdale Women’s Centre (a United Way-supported agency)

BUILDING A GTA FOR ALL

Building community takes community. Together, we have helped:

A group of people sits around a table, eating and conversing.

57,610

newcomers connect with others, the community and needed services

A group seated at a table listens to a speaker seated in front of a projector.

28,059

newcomers access settlement services and wraparound supports

Two men in safety vests and hard hats talk together.

16,719

newcomers acquire knowledge, skills and connections to prepare for the labour market

It’s hard to build a new life in a new place. Together, we will create a GTA where newcomers have the resources and support to embrace meaningful connections and a future where they — and our entire community — can thrive. Any way we can. 


Learn more

May 05, 2025

“The support gives us a second chance at life”

A United Way-supported women’s program helped Piera heal from emotional abuse and support others on their journey.

May 02, 2025

Connecting people in crisis to the support they need

Akeel was in crisis. United Way helped him find the mental health supports, stability and hope he needed to thrive — any way we can.

April 30, 2025

Helping a father find housing and a healthy future

After receiving a cancer diagnosis, Boafo grappled with the news alone. Then, he found a United Way-supported agency that connected him to community, housing and the wraparound services he needed to thrive.