Alliance of Algerians in Calgary Foundation - AACF

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Resource Guide for Algerian Newcomers in Alberta

This guide aims to provide Algerian newcomers with essential resources to facilitate their settlement process in Alberta. For any additional questions or further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. May Allah assist you and keep you in His care.

For Children

1.    School Enrollment

1.1.        Calgary Board of Education (CBE)

·       Language Options: Offers both English and French Immersion programs from kindergarten to Grade 12.

·       To enroll older children in school, create an account on MyCBE (Calgary Board of Education) and provide the necessary information. You will be contacted within 15 days to schedule an evaluation, after which the appropriate school and grade will be assigned.

·       For children with limited English skills, the CBE provides language assessments to place students in appropriate classes.

·       Newcomer Support: CBE has a Welcome Centre that assists immigrant families with school enrollment and offers translation services.

1.2.        Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD)

·       Language Programs: English, French Immersion, and bilingual programs are available.

·       Enrollment Process: Contact the nearest Catholic school for registration details. Proof of residency and child's identification will be required.

1.3.        Francophone Schools

·       School Board: Conseil scolaire FrancoSud serves Francophone students in Calgary and southern Alberta.

·       Eligibility: Open to children who meet the criteria for Francophone education under Section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

·       How to Register: Visit the FrancoSud website or contact the nearest Francophone school for enrollment guidelines.

1.4.        Islamic Schools in Calgary

·       Almadina Language Charter Academy: A public charter school focused on integrating the Alberta curriculum with Arabic language studies. Open to all students. Visit Almadina

·       Calgary Islamic School: Provides a full curriculum from kindergarten to Grade 12 with a focus on Islamic values, teachings, and Arabic language. It includes two campuses:

o   Akram Jomaa Campus: Link to Akram Jomaa Campus

o   Omar Bin Al-Khattab Campus: Link to Omar Bin Al-Khattab Campus

·       Amal School: A private Islamic school offering education from elementary to high school with a focus on Islamic values. Visit Amal School

·       Green Dome Academy: A community-based Islamic school focusing on faith-based education and Alberta curriculum integration. Visit Green Dome Academy

1.5.        Additional Resources for School Enrollment

·       Calgary Immigrant Educational Society (CIES): Offers support to immigrant families regarding school registration, language assessment, and understanding the Alberta education system. Visit CIES

·        Alberta Education: Provides detailed information on different school boards, curriculums, and supports for students with special needs. https://www.alberta.ca/education.aspx

2.    Support for Younger Children

o   Made By Mumma: This organization provides resources, support, and community connections for families with younger children. They offer various programs and activities tailored to meet the needs of young kids, ensuring they have a nurturing and engaging environment. For more information, visit Made By Mumma.

 

3.    Child Benefits

o   To apply for child benefits, you must submit an application. Obtain a referral letter from a social worker through francophone associations such as PIA Calgary or CANAF Calgary to be used as income proof before you get your tax assessment notice. Benefits typically commence three months after your settlement.

 

4.    Alberta Child Health Benefit

o   Low-income families can apply for this program to receive eyeglasses, prescription drugs, and dental care for their children. For more information and application details, visit Alberta Child Health Benefit.

For Employment

  1. English Language Learning
    • Free English courses are available through Immigrant Services Calgary. Register for the CLARC English test here. Referrals to suitable schools will be made after testing, and the process takes about four months. Courses are available for both you and your spouse.

 

  1. Employment Assistance
    • While CANAF can assist with creating Canadian-style resumes and cover letters, organizations such as Manpower and Prospect Human Services are more active in the job market and can help you find job opportunities.
    • For additional support, consider contacting Alberta Works for income support while you seek employment.

For Family Needs

  1. Food Assistance

 

  1. Household Items
    • Apply for vouchers from WINS to receive free household items such as kitchen supplies, clothes, mattresses, tables, and sofas.

 

  1. Driving License
    • Your international driving license is valid for 90 days. During this period, prepare to pass the Class 7 driving test and practice for the Class 5 test. CANAF Calgary
    • offers free translation services for your Algerian driving license.

 

  1. Housing
    • Apply to Calgary Housing as soon as possible to be placed on the waiting list, which can take several years. Create an account and submit the required documents.

For Persons with Disabilities

  1. Support and Services
    • Ups and Downs Calgary: Offers support and resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Visit Ups and Downs Calgary for more information.
    • Canadian Down Syndrome Society: Provides advocacy, education, and support for individuals with Down syndrome. More details can be found at Canadian Down Syndrome Society.
  2. Disability Benefits and Support Programs
    • Apply for disability benefits and support programs through the Government of Alberta to receive financial aid, medical benefits, and other support services.
  3. Community Living Alternatives

Additional Resources

  1. Calgary Fair Entry Program
    • The Calgary Fair Entry Program provides subsidized services to low-income residents, including transit passes and recreation programs.

 

  1. Immigrant Services Calgary
    • Offers a wide range of services for newcomers, including settlement support, language assessment, and employment services. Visit Immigrant Services Calgary for more information.

 

  1. Centre for Newcomers
    • Provides settlement and integration services, including employment support, language training, and community connections. Learn more at Centre for Newcomers.

 

  1. Mosaic Refugee Health Clinic
    • Offers comprehensive health care services to refugees and immigrant populations. Visit Mosaic Refugee Health Clinic for more details.

 

  1. Ethnocultural Council of Calgary (ECCC)
    • Supports diverse ethnocultural communities through capacity building, advocacy, and community development. More information can be found at ECCC.