Prepare with Next Stop Canada Before You Arrive
Next Stop Canada is the YMCA's online, pre-arrival, settlement services that prepare you for your new life in Canada. You’ll get resources and information to help you make informed decisions before you arrive.
About Our Services
Our expert pre-arrival specialists will provide you with personalized information about life in Canada and referrals to services before you arrive in the country. We can help you settle in with free information and referral services on:
- Programs for adults (ages 16+) and youth (ages 12–19).
- Services available in 15 different languages, including French.
- Flexible, online options that work with your schedule. Connect with us on live chat, weekly webinars, videos, blogs, forums, and more.
Helping Newcomer Families Build Brighter Futures
As Syria’s humanitarian crisis unfolded, Alaa and Nabil Al Hawa made the painful decision to flee with their children, Mohamad, 15, Assia, 12, Omama, 8, and Nawras, 4. “It was a hard leap to get to this new life in Canada,” says Nabil.
But they quickly started to make connections in their new community, joining the Cooper Koo Family YMCA with support from our financial assistance program.
At the Y, the whole family swims together; Nabil volunteers at the front desk; and Mohamad is making friends through our free Newcomer Youth Leadership Development program.
For the first time in a long time, the Al Hawa kids just get to be kids. “Our ambition is to build a good future here in Canada,” says Alaa. Nabil agrees: “Our children belong, they can be happy, successful, and contribute. Here, anything is possible.”
