We know the refugee journey is difficult.
You do not need to do it alone. We are here to support you.
Understand the
Refugee Process
We can explain how the refugee determination system works, how to make a refugee claim and can help you help get started. You can also find out more information now on our Refuge Process page.
Find a Lawyer
You might be able to access financial support from Legal Aid Ontario to pay for a lawyer. You can call to apply. Interpretation is available. We can also help you make the call. Additionally, we can help you find a quality refugee lawyer to prepare your refugee claim, represent you at your hearing and advise you for other potential immigration processes.
Understand Your
Rights
You have many rights in Canada, regardless of your status. Let us help you understand your rights as a tenant, as a worker, when it comes to policing etc.
Find Shelter
and Housing
The City of Toronto has a Central Intake phone line that you can call to request a spot in a City shelter. The phone line has interpretation. If you need assistance, we can help you make the call.
Apply for Income
Assistance
You might be eligible for financial assistance from the Ontario Government. We recommend that refugee claimants make the application over the phone (not online). The phone number is 416-338-8888. Interpretation is often NOT provided over the phone. We can help you make the call if you require.
Enrol in School and ESL Classes
Refugee claimants are eligible for school in Ontario. This includes elementary and high school for children and ESL classes for adults. Our workers can help you register yourself and your children for school and book your English language assessments.
Complete your Immigration forms
We can help guide you as you fill out work and study permits as well as applications for permanent residence, citizenship and refugee travel documents.
Get physical and mental health care
The Health Care System can be very confusing. Refugee Claimants are covered by the Interim Federal Health Program(IFH). Our workers can explain the health care system to you, help you make your immigration medical appointment, connect you to primary care, refer you to walk-in clinics and emergency rooms, and advocate for your health needs.
Find Warm
Winter Clothing
One thing we can all agree on is that Canada is COLD in the winter. Romero House has a free “boutique” full of donated clothing. We will do our best to outfit your family!
Apply for a work permit
We know the work permit process can be confusing for refugees or people with precarious status. We can help. Start by reading this guide on applying for work permit. You can also watch the webinar in English or Spanish from FCJ Refugee Centre. These resources will help you know how to fill out your application.
Get physical and mental health care
The Health Care System can be very confusing. Refugee Claimants are covered by the Interim Federal Health Program(IFH). Our workers can explain the health care system to you, help you make your immigration medical appointment, connect you to primary care, refer you to walk-in clinics and emergency rooms, and advocate for your health needs.