Settle in your community
We support you to settle into your new life in British Columbia (BC). We provide support on topics such as education, housing, finances, healthcare, and law.
Start your new life in BC
Our multilingual staff can support you and your family to settle, make new friends, and understand your new life in BC. We can offer support and advice about education, housing, finances, healthcare, and law.
We offer several services for refugees and refugee claimants.
If you’d like to support our work, we are always looking for volunteer mentors. Visit our volunteer pages to learn more.
- We serve all clients as soon as we can. Please phone us to make an appointment before coming into our offices. We have offices across British Columbia, so find the details of your nearest location here.
- Please note that ISSofBC is not a government organization; we only provide services to eligible newcomers in BC.
- If you are outside Canada, please contact IRCC (formerly CIC).
Find your program
Find the right program to settle and start life in British Columbia (BC).
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Settlement Support
In this program, you will learn about life in British Columbia (BC), Canadian society, and local community services, such as medical care and schools, to build your life in BC. Services are available in English and your first language. Benefits include:
Learn MoreSupport to access local schools and healthcare
Confidential support and case management
Personal settlement plan
Learn about your rights in Canada
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BC Newcomer Services Program ( BC NSP )
BC NSP supports you in settling into your new community in British Columbia with services like community orientation, job search support, and career counselling.
Learn MoreSettlement services
Practise in English skills
Work and career support
Start building your life in BC!
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BC SAFE HAVEN
BC SAFE HAVEN offers you free support as a refugee claimant, helping with settlement, English, job search, and mental health referrals.
Learn MoreSupport for refugee claimants and asylum seekers
Refugee claim support
Settling in your new community
English language training
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Moving Ahead Program (MAP)
MAP can support you if you are facing challenges due to your identity or life experiences. MAP services are completely confidential.
Learn MoreGet support to access schools, healthcare, housing, and recreation.
Receive confidential guidance to adjust to life in Canada for you and your family
Learn stress management techniques for settling in Canada and build your confidence
Access specialised support for families, young adults, and LGBTQ+ newcomers
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Multi-cultural Youth Circle (MY Circle)
If you are between 15 and 30 years old, this is the perfect program for you! Discover local activities, become part of your community, and make friends. Benefits include:
Learn MoreFree training and skill workshops
Join group field trips across BC
Meet other young newcomers
Learn how to be a community leader
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Newcomer Women Support
Our women’s programs can help you find support in your local community, make friends, learn about Canada, and even become a community leader!
Learn MoreOpen for refugee and immigrant women
Must be aged 19 and above
Share your experiences with other newcomer women
Practise English and learn leadership skills
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Senior Newcomer Support
If you are 55 years old or older, you can make friends, discover local events, become part of your community, and enjoy life. Benefits include:
Learn MoreLearning about local community resources and Canadian culture
Improving your digital skills such as email and online registrations
Practicing your English in a friendly and patient environment
Meet other older newcomers who speak your language and have similar experiences.
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Volunteering and Community Connections
Volunteering is a great way to get Canadian work experience and support our important work of welcoming newcomers to British Columbia! As a volunteer with ISSofBC, you will get:
Learn MoreValuable professional experience
Opportunities to learn about your local community
New friends and mentors
A way of practicing your English
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Solid Start 360 Employment
Solid Start 360—Employment Program supports participants in building confidence, developing job readiness skills, and taking a strong step into the Canadian workforce.
Learn More1:1 job search coaching
Group workshops (in-person/online/self-paced)
Job postings and referrals to employer partners
Assistance to understand and succeed in the local labour market
Where to Find Us
We have several locations across BC. View our locations to find addresses, maps, directions, and contact information.
Explore Locations