Our mission is to provide a support system which fosters individual and family needs in an environment of equality and dignity. We provide full-time language instruction classes, settlement services, and support workers in the school system for our newcomer families. In 1995, SISA received funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada to offer the LINC program.
Over the years, SISA has developed and offered two different streams of language instruction. The SISA settlement team greets our Government Sponsored Refugees at the airport, and are often the first helpful person they meet in their new home of Medicine Hat. The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program originally began as a pilot project in 2007, and started as a partnership with SD76 at Southview Community School.
Over the years, SISA has developed and offered two different streams of language instruction. The SISA settlement team greets our Government Sponsored Refugees at the airport, and are often the first helpful person they meet in their new home of Medicine Hat. The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program originally began as a pilot project in 2007, and started as a partnership with SD76 at Southview Community School.
Services
Saamis Immigration Services Association (SISA) is a government-funded non-profit organization which has been assisting in the integration, adjustment and resettlement of immigrants and refugees in the community of Medicine Hat since its opening in 1988. We are proud to provide a support system which fosters individual and family needs in an environment of equality and dignity.
When immigrants first arrive in Medicine Hat they are met by an Association staff member and a volunteer interpreter if needed. Afterwards the clients are escorted to a temporary accommodation where the intake and needs assessment is done. The Association provides a series of information sessions on topics essential for better orientation and quicker adaptation to life in a new community.
In our LINC classes, students learn: basic reading, writing and listening skills; as well as phrases and vocabulary necessary for daily life. Canadian customs and culture; local community resources; and job readiness are also covered in this extensive program.
Offers classes ranging from Canadian Language Benchmark level "Pre" to Level 4. To be eligible for LINC classes a student must be a permanent resident of Canada, be a minimum of 18 years of age and receive a Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment.Is offered in the evening at 6 hours per week and is meant to help students reach level 4 in Listening, Speaking, Reading & Writing according to Canadian Language Benchmark.
Offers classes ranging from Canadian Language Benchmark level "Pre" to Level 4. To be eligible for LINC classes a student must be a permanent resident of Canada, be a minimum of 18 years of age and receive a Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment.Is offered in the evening at 6 hours per week and is meant to help students reach level 4 in Listening, Speaking, Reading & Writing according to Canadian Language Benchmark.
A volunteer-based program in which newcomers to Canada are matched with community volunteers who help them to learn about Canadian values and traditions. The objective of the Community Connections Program is to help immigrants overcome the stress of moving to a new country.
Volunteers familiar with Canadian society assist newcomers by promoting community engagement, encouraging the newcomer through mentorship, group leadership, as well as providing networking opportunities in their field of work and opportunities to practice English.
Volunteers familiar with Canadian society assist newcomers by promoting community engagement, encouraging the newcomer through mentorship, group leadership, as well as providing networking opportunities in their field of work and opportunities to practice English.
Requirement: Volunteers should be fluent in English and be prepared to work with people with language barrier. Must have good communication skills, be good listeners and genuinely like people. Volunteers must complete an application form with three references. Volunteers may also provide an up-to-date resume.
