When Liudmyla arrived in Canada with her young family, they felt lost and did not know how to navigate familiar systems, from healthcare and taxes to employment and education.
Liudmyla turned to Impact North Shore for assistance, where she was able to receive support in Ukrainian. Being able to communicate directly in her first language helped her feel understood and gave her confidence to ask questions and find her way.
Both Liudmyla and her husband attended English classes, while the Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program helped them to understand the educational system and enroll their children in local schools. Through the Immigrant Parents as Literacy Supporters program, they met other newcomer families on the North Shore.
“Impact North Shore supported me and helped me learn how to do things myself.”
Over time, Liudmyla shares that she became more confident communicating in English, and was able to advocate for her children, and navigate life in Canada. She shared that her children became more socially active, and the family built friendships and connections that helped them settle and feel at home.
Today, Liudmyla runs her own businesses and takes the time to share what she has learned with other newcomers, encouraging them to seek support when they need it.
“I always knew I could come to Impact North Shore with any question or situation. They would help me find options or connect me with the right support.”
Liudmyla is grateful for the support she received from Impact North Shore and her community and is looking for ways to give back through volunteering. She and her family are continuing to grow their roots in a new community. Her journey shows that when families receive support they can rely on, they can put down roots, grow in confidence, and contribute their own strengths to the community around them.
