Newcomers and immigrants arrive in St. Thomas-Elgin through various visa programs and circumstances. Some are family-sponsored and arrive directly in St. Thomas-Elgin, such as Frank and Iin, while others move from other parts of Canada, finding opportunities and making new friends when they arrive, such as Malichi and Gabriel and Doris.

Regardless of how you arrive in St. Thomas-Elgin, settling into a new area takes time and our local government-funded settlement agencies can help you through the process if you need it. You can also check out the St. Thomas Elgin Local Immigration Partnership's Newcomer Information Package for more information about resources and services available in the area. 

Settlement Agencies

In St. Thomas-Elgin, there are two government-funded settlement agencies that provide free support and assistance to newcomers and immigrants in St. Thomas-Elgin:

• Mennonite Community Services (MCS) in Aylmer, East Elgin
• YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin in St. Thomas

These agencies help individuals and families with a variety of immigration tasks and processes, including:

• Information about settlement, citizenship, and immigration to help newcomers make informed decisions about life in Canada. 
• Orientation to the St. Thomas-Elgin community and to Canadian life, including information about housing, education, banking, employment, and social services. 
• Referrals to programs and services in the region including employment, healthcare, language, social services, and skills training. 
• English language learning opportunities for eligible adult learners. 
• Employer supports for newcomers looking to build their professional networks. 
• Connections to the community through programs to help build friendships and a sense of belonging. 
• Interpretation services in some languages to help newcomers navigate settlement issues.

For more information, contact the organizations directly.

Mennonite Community Services (MCS) - 16 Talbot Street East, Aylmer, ON, N5H 1H4, 226-544-0380

YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin - 16 Mary Street West, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 2S3, 519-631-9800

OUR PARTNERS & FUNDERS