News
Home kits for newcomers
Every day we help newcomers settle and integrate into your community. Some of these newcomers arrive in Ottawa after having lived years in a refugee camp. As excited as they are to start a new life in Canada, they face many challenges, such as learning a new language,...
Meet Jimmy, a thriving newcomer
Venezuela is in crisis. The South American country has been in decline for years with a collapsing economy and increasing political opposition. In 2018, abut 4 million Venezuelans fled the country to escape violence, food shortages and hyperinflation. We want to...
Many partners help newcomers
Every day CCI Ottawa works with numerous partners to ensure newcomers are provided with the tools, resources and care to reach their full potential. Every month, we want to highlight for you the work of another agency. This month, the Ottawa Mennonite Refugee...
Helping others is the Canadian way
Ten years ago, a friend and I started an initiative to help newcomers during the holidays. We donated a large load of groceries to a newcomer family in need. We connected with the family through my mother’s friend. Two years later, in 2012, I connected to the Catholic...
This newcomer preaches patience
Every newcomer to Canada has a unique story. But they all share similar goals. They come to Canada to build new lives. Less then two years ago, Shabana Ansari arrived in Ottawa with her husband and son. They were excited about their future but also a little anxious....
Do you have skates to donate?
Skates, skates and more skates. CCI Ottawa is looking for donations of hockey skates in working condition or donations of new skates. The skates will be used by newcomers who take to the Rink of Dreams next month as part of our Skating Buddy Program. With a team of...
Growing strong after one year
By Megan Russell The Karen people, or Kayin as they call themselves, are an ethnic group from Southeast Asia. They are the second largest ethnic group with around 6 to 7 million people in Burma alone. Unfortunately, many of the Burmese Karen people had to flee across...
Meet Joseph, youth case worker
By Megan Russell It is no secret that being young has its many challenges. Most young people struggle with confidence or self esteem, choosing their career path and finding their place in this world. This is where youth workers at the Catholic Centre for Immigrants...
Finding computers for newcomers
By Megan Russell In today’s technologically advanced world, it is almost impossible to succeed without owning a personal computer. Imagine trying to earn a degree at university or advance your career without one. This is the unfortunate reality for many newcomers...
CCI client saves man’s life
Yamah Gboluma was riding a crowded OC Transpo bus on July 24 , on her way to a job interview at a medical clinic, when a woman at the back started screaming for help. "He's dying. Someone help me!" the woman called out. Gboluma, who was a physician in her native...