Newcomer Settlement Services

Our Newcomer Settlement Services program provides various immigrant settlement services, language training, and community connection activities to help newcomers to Canada settle into their new community and begin to participate in all facets of Canadian life.

We offer a variety of settlement services for newcomers, including (but not limited to):

  • We help newcomers with needs assessments and settlement plans to achieve their goals.
  • Informative sessions cover key topics like health, housing, employment, and government resources.
  • We assist with applications and important documents like health cards and SIN numbers.
  • Notary services are available for various documents.
  • Volunteers help newcomers with English practice, tutoring, and conversation circles.
  • ESL classes and online language training opportunities are offered.
  • Support is provided in finding affordable housing and securing employment.
  • Guidance is given for job applications and skills training.
  • We help with credential recognition in education or training fields.
  • Assistance is available for understanding immigration and citizenship processes.
  • Community integration is encouraged through social events, celebrations, and volunteering.
  • Specialized programs cater to youth, seniors, and women.
  • Our Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Program supports students and families.
  • We help newcomers make friends and feel at home in the community.
  • Support is extended to immigrant and refugee students and their families in adapting to a new culture and understanding the education system.

All settlement services are free of charge and available to:

Permanent Residents or Manitoba eligible clients, including temporary residents holding a valid work permit or study permit, refugee claimants, Canadian-born citizens raised outside Canada, naturalized Canadian citizens, and spouse and dependents of those listed above.

Please note, if you are not eligible, we can connect anyone requiring additional support with volunteers in the community to assist with meeting your needs.

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes

We offer Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) for eligible adult learners. You do not have to pay to register and attend ESL classes offered through this program. These classes assist learners to attain proficiency in English required for basic social interaction and also help newcomers find employment and pursue educational goals.

Language Assessment and Registration

Before you are placed in an English class, you will have your English level assessed. Assessments are conducted by professional staff from the Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC) and can be conducted by a remote assessment at the PLLC. The test measures your skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing English. The assessment will allow you to be referred to an appropriate class level within our language training program at the PLLC or through English Online.

You can register for a class at any time. We offer continuous intake. However, please bring your Permanent Resident card with you when registering for a class.

Class Schedule for 2024 – 2025 (September 9, 2024 to June 25, 2025)

Portage la Prairie
ESL Literacy, Stage 1 (CLB 1-2, CLB 3-4) & Stage 2 (CLB 5 to 8) classes take place at the Portage Learning & Literacy Centre. We may also offer online learning, if required. Contact us for more details.

ESL Stage 1: Monday and Wednesday evenings, 5:30pm to 8:30pm

ESL Stage 2: Monday and Wednesday evenings, 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Child-minding services are available for registered students upon request.

English Conversation Circles

Our organization is pleased to offer English Conversation Circles, providing a valuable service for individuals seeking to improve their English language skills. These informal gatherings create a supportive environment for language practice and cultural exchange. Led by experienced facilitators, participants engage in conversations on diverse topics, fostering an atmosphere conducive to enhancing speaking and listening abilities. Whether organized by language learning institutions, community centers, or volunteer groups, our English Conversation Circles aim to build participants’ confidence in using English in real-life situations.