Get Settled: Belonging for newcomers & refugees

Many refugees who are supported by ISANS overcome significant barriers and often become active leaders and volunteers, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to giving back to their communities. The story of Marisa Carolina Enriquez Ramos and her family, who fled Guatemala while navigating a hearing impairment, highlights the impact of these services. Facing communication barriers and limited access to tailored supports, Marisa and her family engaged with ISANS’ Refugee Resettlement programs, as well as literacy and health navigation services. Through these programs, among others like the Private Refugee Sponsorship, newcomers overcame obstacles and built a strong sense of inclusion, belonging, and unity within their new community.

Programs like Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) play a key role in supporting families by equipping children for school and empowering parents in their educational roles, fostering both personal growth and community cohesion. Since 2024, HIPPY has supported Marisa and her daughter Alexa, addressing challenges related to Spanish and ASL communication and ensuring effective school readiness. Regular home visits and group meetings provided Marisa with resources and encouragement, helping her grow in confidence as her child’s first teacher. Over the past year, Marisa participated in 23 home visits, attended nine parent group meetings, and read seven HIPPY books with Alexa, emerging as a strong, resilient, and ambitious individual.

During initial intake, Marisa expressed her concern about finding a school, fostering English language skills, and her ability to teach Alexa, particularly as they were new to Canada and needed time to settle in Nova Scotia. The Home Visitor's regular check-ins provided vital support and resources, which facilitated Marisa's significant growth in confidence as her child's first teacher.

By fostering a sense of belonging and providing opportunities for growth, ISANS creates a supportive environment where newcomers are empowered to actively contribute to Nova Scotia’s future. The unique talents and experiences of newcomers enrich the province’s cultural and economic life, strengthening communities and building a more vibrant, inclusive society for all.