Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series

This learning series empowers front line staff with current information and resources about important services in the community and connections to enable excellence in their work supporting immigrants and others.

Access all resources and recordings from previous Brown Bag Learning Series sessions here:

1. Addressing Language Barriers & Employment Opportunities in Waterloo Region, Dec. 17, 2024

Resources:

Addressing Language Barriers in Waterloo Region

• Language Assessment & Temporary Status Language Programs - Jason Kempthorne
• Portfolio-Based Language Assessment Programs - Alison Wilson & Serena Reis
• Informal Language Support Programs - Tera Dargavel
• Occupation-Specific Language Training - Natalie Hughes
• Exploration of French Language Options - Jean Di Dieu Basabose

• Connector Program - Dave Thomas
• Power of Trade & Mentorship Program - Gitanjali Mehta & Marsha Schlueter
• Overview of the Workplace & Immigrant Network (WIN) - Olusola Oladele & Jennie di Girolamo
• Discussion on Refugee Employment - Natalia Tashbolotova
• Insights into Immigrant Employment - Lily Magnus

• Addressing Language Barriers & Employment Opportunities in Waterloo Region

2. Access to Services in Waterloo Region Regardless of Immigration Status, June 26, 2024

Resources:

• Categories of Migrant Workers & Complexities they Face, Access Without Fear Policy

• Occupational Health & Safety Rights and Precarious Status Workers
• Legal Services in Waterloo Region available to Temporary Residents, Refugee Claimants and People without Status
• Housing & Homelessness Services Available to Temporary Residents, Refugee Claimants, and People without Status
• Healthcare Services available to Temporary Residents, Refugee Claimants and People without Status
• How Settlement Organizations can and can’t assist Temporary Residents, Refugee Claimants and People without Status in Waterloo Region
• YMCA Programs and Services & community services
• International Student Support Services Contact
• Questions & Answers

• Access to Services in WR Regardless of Immigration Status

3. Access to Basic Needs in Waterloo Region, April 24, 2024

Resources:

• Housing - Region of Waterloo
• Food security programs in Waterloo Region
• Legal service support in Waterloo Region
• Income assistance & transportation programs
• Child subsidy programs
• Questions & Answers

• Access to basic needs in Waterloo Region

4. Access to Healthcare & Mental Health Services in Waterloo Region, Feb 21, 2024

Resources:

• Newcomer Wellbeing Program: Services and Challenges
• CND & KW4 OHT Presentation
• Community Healthcaring KW Presentation
• WCHC Presentation
• Q&A: Access to Healthcare & Mental Health Services in Waterloo Region

• Access to Health Care and Mental Health Services in Waterloo Region
• Navigating Mental Health Well-Being Amidst Global Conflict: Tips & Tools for Client-Care and Self-Care for Those in the Helping Professions