CCSYR Simcoe Satellite Office is ready to offer crucial immigration and settlement services to rural communities in and around Norfolk County. Whether you’re a newcomer, temporary foreign worker, or refugee living in a rural community, your challenges might differ from those in urban centres. That is why our services are tailored based on your unique needs- to make your transition to rural life in Canada as smooth as possible.
You can get language assessments, conversational English classes, community engagement programs, employment support, housing assistance, mental health counselling, and immigration guidance. These services are offered in both virtual and in-person on farm, in community and in-house locations. Our support services are designed for farm owners, their international employees, and community partners.
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Services We Offer
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Language Assessments: Know Where You Stand
Strong language skills are critical when you’re starting out in a new country. Our language assessments determine your current level of English proficiency, helping us match you with the suitable classes and resources.
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Conversational English Classes: Speak with Confidence
Our Conversational English Classes offer a supportive environment where you can practice speaking, improve your listening skills, and build confidence. We focus on real-life situations, so you’re ready for anything—from grocery shopping to job interviews.
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Community Engagement: Build Connections
Feeling part of a community can make all the difference. Through our Community Engagement Programs, you can meet people, build friendships, and learn more about local culture and activities. We organize events and gatherings that make it easy to connect with others and feel a sense of belonging.
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Employment Support Services: Finding the Right Job
Looking for work can be tricky in a new country. From resume writing to interview coaching, our Employment Support Services provide the tools and support you need to secure employment that fits your skills and experience.
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Housing Support: Find Your Home
Finding a place to live can be one of the biggest challenges for newcomers. Our Housing Support Services help you navigate the local rental market, understand tenant rights, and find safe, affordable housing options for you and your family.
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Counselling and Mental Health Support: Your Well-Being Matters
Adjusting to a new life can be overwhelming. If you’re stressed, anxious, or simply need someone to talk to, our Counselling and Mental Health Support Services are here for you. We offer both one-on-one and group sessions.
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Immigration Support: Get the Right Guidance
Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complicated. Our team provides Immigration Support Services to help with everything from paperwork to understanding your rights. Whether you’re applying for a visa, permanent residency, or citizenship, we’ve got the information and support you need.
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Workshops and Seminars: Learn and Grow
Our Workshops and Information Sessions cover various topics to help you succeed in your new life. Learn about budgeting, workplace culture, Canadian laws, and more. These sessions will give you the knowledge and skills to thrive in Canada.
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Peer Support Groups: Share and Learn
Sometimes, the best support comes from others who have been through similar experiences. Our Peer Support Groups connect you with fellow newcomers who understand the challenges and can offer advice, encouragement, and friendship.
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Cultural and Community Events: Celebrate Together
We host Multicultural Events to celebrate the diversity of our community and bring people together. Whether it’s a festival, holiday celebration, or cultural showcase, these events are a great way to enjoy local culture and meet new people.
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Employer/Employee Mediation: Creating a Better Workplace
Understanding workplace dynamics can be tricky, especially in a new country. Our Employer/Employee Mediation Services help improve communication between workers and employers, ensuring a positive, supportive environment for everyone involved.
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Beginner Spanish Classes: Welcoming Newcomers
For community members who want to engage with thousands of Spanish people living and working in Simcoe, we offer two beginner Spanish speaking classes per week. Local employers who have managers and field supervisors as well as farm owners who wish to learn Spanish can enroll in these classes.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Simcoe team. As a farmworker from another country, I didn’t know what to do when I needed help leaving a bad situation. But you were there, guiding me through the paperwork and making a difficult process easier. You also helped me, and others get to Ontario, met us at the airport, and made us feel safe and welcome. Your support went beyond just paperwork—you helped me find housing, giving me the stability I desperately needed. You also assisted me with transportation and clothing when I needed it most. Your thoughtfulness never went unnoticed. What has meant the most, however, is your compassion and encouragement. Your genuine care for my well-being has been a source of strength, and I’m truly grateful. Leanne, you are an amazing person, and I’m so thankful for everything you’ve done. Your kindness has inspired me to be a better person, and I hope to pay it forward. Thank you to the CCSYR office in Simcoe for all your support.
I want to take a moment to highlight the outstanding work Leanne has been doing. I’ve known Leanne for over 10 years and have had the privilege of working with her on various farms during that time. One of the most exciting developments is her work with CCSYR, where she’s been organizing and hosting numerous events. As an MC, I’ve had the honor of participating in many of these events, including sports days, community gatherings, paint nights, concerts, and mental health awareness initiatives, to name just a few. Leanne’s efforts go beyond event planning. She’s made a tremendous impact by helping people who’ve lost their jobs, connecting them with opportunities. Her work is truly transformative, and it’s been a pleasure to witness her dedication to the community. I’d like to thank all the sponsors, donors, and supporters who continue to back Leanne’s efforts. As someone who has personally benefited from her work, I can confidently say that it has made a huge difference. I look forward to seeing Leanne’s continued success and the positive impact she’ll continue to have. Thank you, Leanne, the Simcoe team, and CCSYR for all the incredible support.
My name is Ernie Sims, and I’m from Jamaica. I came to Canada 14 years back and have been working as a migrant worker. Many people may not fully understand the sacrifices we make to be here, especially when we have families—wives, children, husbands—back home. It’s difficult for both men and women, but we’re so grateful to have met Leanne and the CCSYR group, who have been advocating for us and doing everything possible to improve our lives here. Leanne has become a source of strength for us on the farm. She has partnered with several farms in the area, including Skylar Farm, where I work. She organized workshops like painting sessions, which have helped us sharpen our skills and become more proactive. She also provided anger management and anxiety classes, which have greatly improved our mental and emotional well-being. Thanks to Simcoe team and CCSYR, life here is much more manageable. We are truly thankful for your support and hope that those who are funding these programs continue to do so, as it is making a real difference in our lives.
Why You Can Trust Us
With nearly 20 years of experience working with temporary foreign workers, our team at the Simcoe Satellite Office is deeply knowledgeable about programs like the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) and the Agri-Food Immigration Pilot. We understand the specific challenges facing agricultural workers and offer tailored support to help you succeed, giving you the confidence that you’re in good hands.
Meet Leanne: Norfolk Expansion Lead.
For nearly 20 years, Leanne Arnal Bennett has worked in many positions within the Caribbean Community. She has led many anti-racism campaigns as well as community and Farm Worker events and peer support groups.
Leanne has rallied together with government and media to stand up and speak out for Jamaican and offshore worker rights. Knowledgeable and experienced in the government farming program and working with hundreds of offshore workers across Canada, Leanne has become a reputable advocate/speaker and solution-based representative for thousands of Farm Workers across Canada.
Since January 2024, Leanne has been operating the CCSYR Simcoe Satellite office to ensure that gaps to immigration settlement services for Temporary Foreign Workers, Refugees, and Newcomers to Norfolk are filled. As the Norfolk Expansion Lead, For CCSYR, Leanne’s goal is to continually form connections to build an inclusive community.
Meet Adrian Lopez – From international student to proud Simcoe employee.
I am originally from Mexico and came to Canada two years ago as an international student, studying the Social Service Worker program at Fanshawe College in Simcoe. During my time as a student and newcomer, I saw the struggles immigrants face, such as housing, employment, transportation, and access to immigration information. I also connected with Mexican and Jamaican farm workers who face additional challenges, like language barriers, and need services such as counseling, employment support, and transportation.
In May, I began my practicum at CCSYR’s Simcoe office, where I learned about the organization and its impact on the community. After graduating, I was fortunate to be offered a position at this organization. Currently, I am working some days in digital and some days in person in Simcoe office. I am proud to be part of a team that helps newcomers and immigrants, and I’m excited to continue supporting the community with the resources they need.
Proud to Collaborate With:
- Grand River Community Health
- Canadian Mental Health Association
- Norfolk Literacy Council
- Norfolk Pregnancy Services
- Simcoe Public Library
- Norfolk Refugee Committee
- Haldimand Refugees of Hope
- Fanshawe College International Student Department
- Service Canada
- Canada Revenue Agency
- Ontario Provincial Police
- Fanshawe College Employment Center
- Hamilton YMCA
- Venture Norfolk
- Several local Farms
Get in Touch Today!
To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact us. We look forward to helping you feel at home in Canada.
Location: 191 Queensway West, Simcoe, Ontario
Phone Number: 519-277-1102 / 1-800-263-2075
Email: simcoe@ccsyr.org