Evaluation of the Host Program

Appendix F: Comparison of CIC settlement programs

Program Description Similarities Differences with Host
ISAP ISAP supports the settlement and adaptation of newcomers. It provides guidance and knowledge necessary to meet their basic settlement needs independently and adapt to life in Canada.

Supports settlement needs of newcomers.

Some focus on knowledge of the Canadian context.

May be delivered in individual and in group settings.

Does not include a focus on networking or cross-cultural outcomes.

Delivered by SPO staff as opposed to volunteers.
WCI WCI focuses on creating connections between newcomers and Canadians, eliminating barriers to integration by creating welcoming communities, and educating against racism. Supports cross-cultural exchange and acceptance.

Does not focus on creating networks between individuals.

Focuses primarily on welcoming communities (Canadian organisations and communities) as opposed to newcomers.

It is not a settlement program that directly provides assistance to newcomers’ settlement process. It is focused on empowering newcomers when dealing with racism and discrimination.

Does not focus on development of networks or directly supporting settlement and adaptation.

LINC The LINC Program aims to facilitate the social, cultural and economic integration of immigrants and refugees into Canada by providing language instruction in English or French, as well as information that helps newcomers to become oriented to the Canadian way of life. Supports mostly one aspect of the settlement and adaptation process – acquisition of language.

Provides formal learning opportunities (classes) for newcomers to learn and practice English or French.

Volunteers provide one-on-one support to newcomers through structured classes.

Does not include a focus on networking or cross-cultural outcomes however this may be a side benefit of participating in multicultural classes.

ELT ELT provides higher levels of language training, including job-specific language training, to help immigrants and refugees find and keep work commensurate with their experience and skills.

Focuses on development of professional linkages to workplaces rather than creation of networks.

Some focus on creating acceptance among employers for employee of different cultures.

Do not use volunteers as delivery agents.

Does not focus on cross-cultural exchanges and acceptance directly.

SWIS SWIS is a school-based outreach programs in partnership with school boards designed to help newcomer students and their families settle in their school and community.

Directly assists or supports newcomers in daily tasks or activities.

Supports learning about Canadian culture and facilitates integration.

Activities are delivered in an informal setting.

SWIS workers are always responsible for a large number of families or individuals, potentially spread across communities, which means that they cannot concentrate on one or two families.

Makes use of settlement-trained staff and is not a volunteer-based program.

Is only available for those immigrants who have children, thus limiting access and use of the program.

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