Are financial support programs available for newcomers?

Moving to a new city is always accompanied not only by the joy of discovery, but also by a significant financial burden. Finding housing, setting up a household, and establishing a family budget all require resources. Fortunately, Calgary has a number of free and partially subsidized initiatives to help newcomers adapt and establish a solid financial foundation for their lives.

At the federal level, one of the first sources of support is the Settlement Program, administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This program provides free advice on finding housing, employment, familiarizing yourself with community services, and assistance with preparing for citizenship exams. Thanks to IRCC online tools, you can easily find the nearest organization that provides settlement services and book a free individual or group session.

Within the province of Alberta, newcomers have access to the Alberta Child and Family Benefit, a quarterly payment of up to $2,221 per child for low- and middle-income families. The amount of assistance depends on the number of children and the family's financial situation and can be quickly applied for online through Benefits Wayfinder.

For refugees and persons under protection, there is the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP). The program provides a one-time grant for start-up expenses (rent, housing equipment) and a monthly social assistance payment during the first months after arrival. RAP rates are reviewed annually, and as of September 1, 2024, increased rates will be in effect to reflect the actual cost of living in each province.

Religious and community organizations facilitate adaptation through the Settlement Service Program (SSP) Calgary Catholic Immigration Society. SSP participants receive free individual counselling with a resettlement consultant, group orientation, language circles, and seminars with guest speakers. Services cover both initial settlement issues and career and family budget planning.

At the municipal level, Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) provides grant support to a number of organizations, including Connections for Families, where newcomers can receive up to five free sessions with a financial coach. The program helps participants create a realistic budget, find savings opportunities, and learn the basics of tax planning.

Among the most important financial benefits available to all new residents are federal tax credits: Canada Child Benefit (CCE) — monthly payments of up to $7,997 per child under six and up to $6,748 per child aged 6–17, as well as GST/HST credit — quarterly payments for low-income families, calculated when filing their first tax return.

Finally, through Alberta Supports, newcomers, including Ukrainians under the CUAET program, can apply for one-time and monthly assistance to cover basic needs (housing, food, transportation). The program does not require a Canadian bank account to receive initial financial support, and rates vary based on family composition and income.

Thus, Calgary and Alberta offer a wide range of financial support initiatives, from start-up grants and tax credits to free counseling and coaching. Newcomers can gradually take advantage of each of these to reduce the stress of moving, streamline their expenses, and lay the foundation for a stable and comfortable life in Canada.