The New Brunswick Multicultural Council acknowledges that the work of the Council and its members takes place on the traditional unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi’kmaq and Peskotomuhkati peoples. This territory is covered by the “Treaties of Peace and Friendship” which these nations first signed with the British Crown in 1725. The treaties did not deal with the surrender of lands and resources, but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations.
As people working with the some of the newest residents of what is now known as Canada and New Brunswick, we pay respect to the elders, past and present, and the descendants of this land. We honour the knowledge keepers as we strive to build a multicultural and inclusive New Brunswick.
Settlement agencies help newcomers, immigrants and refugees find the services they need to settle in New Brunswick.
They can support newcomers through the following programs and services:
Pre-Arrival Services
The Government of Canada provides free in-person and online services to help newcomers better prepare and adjust to life in Canada. These services can help them with living and working in Canada, accessing education, work experience and professional licenses/certificates recognized, and connecting with employers and with free support services upon arrival.
Learn more about pre-arrival services.
Services Offered at Arrival
These services are free and are available in multiple languages in communities across New Brunswick. Many agencies also deliver programs for newcomer and refugee youth.
In addition to the general settlement services listed above, there are five Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) Agreement holders in NB, through the YMCA Saint John Newcomer Connections, the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, the Multicultural Association of Greater Moncton, and the Multicultural Association of the Chaleur Region, and the Northwest Newcomer Resource Center.
RAP staff assist with the immediate and short-term needs of new arrivals, including interpretation and translation services, as well as transportation to temporary accommodations.
The Government of Canada, through the RAP, provides financial assistance to Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) for basic needs such as food, housing, and transportation. The amount varies depending on the number and ages of family members. GAR families receive financial support for a maximum of one year or until they are financially self-sufficient.