Each year, approximately 1,700 government-assisted refugees are admitted to Quebec. These individuals have been granted refugee status overseas under the Geneva Convention, having been recognized as victims of persecution. Some have spent many years in refugee camps. Their resettlement in Canada is coordinated and funded by the government.
Since the opening of our temporary accommodation facility, Maison Marie Gérin-Lajoie, CSAI has welcomed these individuals into a supportive and structured environment for their initial weeks in Quebec. During their first year of resettlement, our team provides personalized support, including assistance with finding housing, registering for public services, opening a bank account, and scheduling health assessments.
Once housing is secured, the integration process begins, guided by tailored follow-ups based on each individual’s or family’s needs. This support continues over several years. The CSAI team ensures that newcomers advance toward autonomy, receive the benefits to which they are entitled, and have access to healthcare, French language training, education, childcare services, workforce integration support, and any other relevant services.
Upon arrival, community organizations specializing in immigration across Quebec are responsible for welcoming and assisting government-assisted refugees. In Montreal, CSAI is the designated organization by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) to provide reception and integration services for this population.
Information, guidance, and support for the first days in Canada, including health insurance card, social insurance number, bank account, and permanent resident card
Assistance with finding adequate and accessible housing
School or daycare registration for children, and French language courses for adults
Job search or return-to-school guidance
Regular follow-up to ensure successful integration
Intercultural twinning programs
French language support workshops, including homework assistance and literacy development
