The Resettlement Assistance Program delivers income support and assistance for a range of immediate and essential services to Government Assisted Refugees (GARs) within the first 4-6 weeks of arrival to Canada.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society is an authorized service provider organization and funded by the Government of Canadaـــــ Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to deliver services to GAR clients allocated to Central Vancouver Island.
CVIMS provides essential and immediate services including the following:
- Receiving newcomers at the airport
- Providing temporary accommodation for a maximum of 21 days and necessary transportation within the first several days.
- Providing essential financial, housing, and life skills orientations for life in Canada.
- Translation and interpretation services
- Assisting in finding permanent accommodation
- Referring to other settlement programs and case management
- Correspond and provide updates to IRCC throughout a GARs first 12 months in Canada.
- Receive and support transferred GAR clients with RAP services remaining.
Key Forms & Activities Undertaken within First 3 Weeks in BC:
- Updating Canadian address for PR Card (Permanent Resident Card)
- SIN (Social Insurance Number)
- Opening a bank account
- CCB (Canada Child Benefits)
- Care Card (MSP – Medical Services Plan)
- Information and support with IFHP (Interim Federal Health Program) extended health coverage
- Provide status updates to IRCC during major life changes within their first 12 months.
