Training & Workshops
We offer issues-focussed training to private refugee sponsors that they identify as critical to their settlement of newcomers. These are free, two-hour, online workshops to address issues such as cultural impact, housing, healthcare, education, employment strategies, language training, financial planning as well as child protection, mental health issues and more.
All workshops run from 10:00 am – 12:00 noon on a Saturday with an opportunity to connect and learn through formal training followed by joining a breakout room at the conclusion of the event. To register for our events, watch for our flyers and send us an email at info@refugeesponsornet.ca.
February 21, 2026
Healthcare – Navigating the Healthcare System
- Build a healthcare team for newcomer families
- Address common challenges newcomers face when accessing healthcare
- Promote preventative care to newcomers, such as regular check-ups, screenings, and immunizations, as well as mental health services and dental services
- Access online resources for appointments, search methods, and medical records
May 9, 2026
Employment – Strategies for Longer-term Success
- Assessing skills – who does It and why is it important, how to emphasize skills in searches
- Apprenticeship programs – how they work, benefits, long-term employment
- Entrepreneurship – what skills are needed, what grants are available, importance of networking
September 19, 2026
Housing – The Changing Marketplace
- New developments in government affordable housing policies for the province
- Opportunities for low-income housing pre and post month 13
- Finding housing for large families
- Identifying other locations outside GTA for affordable housing
November 7, 2026
Education – Pathways to Adult Learning
- Basic skill and literacy upgrading
- Transitioning from secondary to post-secondary education
- Bridging programs for internationally educated/trained professionals
Lunch & Learns
Sponsors possess considerable knowledge from work and lived experience. Together, in discussion, they address issues and problems sponsor groups face in working toward best practice. With the help of a resource person and a moderator, they get to the heart of the challenge and offer each other practical solutions in an online, one-hour discussion where they quickly gain new knowledge or confirm they are on the right track in their decision-making.
To register for a Lunch & Learn, from 12 noon – 1:00 pm, on a Wednesday, watch for our flyers and send us an email to info@refugeesponsornet.ca.
All of our Lunch & Learns for 2025 have been completed. Check back soon for our 2026 schedule!
October 16, 2025
Road to Citizenship – to provide an approach to safe conversation about the process
- Identification of barriers and incentives
- Opening the conversation around permanent resident to citizen
- Accessing educational resources to assist newcomers in preparing