New to Canada?
speqtrum now offers services for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth who are new to Canada! This is Hamilton's very first program serving Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ newcomers. We provide this support to newcomers in partnership with the YWCA's Join Program for newcomers.
How We Support 2S-LGBTQIA+ Newcomers
Integration​
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Support with integration from Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ peers
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Help to build relationships between Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ newcomers and intersecting community members to break isolation
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Build community spaces and networks through our regular community events, workshops, and socials
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Form relationships within and across communities to advocate for mutual needs
Re-Orientation​​
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Resources and basic support navigating services such as healthcare, employment, social assistance, and housing as a Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ person
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Weekly Check-ins within our Check-in program
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Identify safe(r) spaces and resources for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Newcomers' needs
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Build skills, confidence, and knowledge that assist newcomers in self-advocacy and integration
One-on-one Support
We also offer weekly one on one chats for Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ newcomer youth, where folks can chat with our Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ Newcomer Youth Support Worker about challenges, hopes, dreams, or whatever they are experiencing at the time. Contact us to sign up!
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All Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ newcomer youth can also sign up for any speqtrum general programs, which are open to all Two Spirit and LGBTQIA+ youth. If you are a newcomer looking to access our programs please email newcomer@speqtrum.ca or call 289-439-6154 to book an appointment!
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Please note that these events will not always be offered in English, but an interpreter can be provided if one is required.