Quinte United Immigrant Services

"Celebrating Cultural Diversity since 1986"

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Host Program

HOST is designed to match resident Canadians with new immigrants to help them learn how to live in Canada. Immigrants come to our country every year to build a new life for themselves and for their families.

The HOST Program was established in 1987 in response to the arrival in Canada of refugees from South East Asia. The program takes up less than one per cent of federal settlement dollars but its impact is enormous.

The HOST Program brings different Canadians together in a nurturing, mutually supportive demonstration of community. Despite its relatively low cost, the program allows thousands of newcomers and established Canadians to meet to share friendship and experiences, and to learn from each other.

For Newcomers

Moving to a new country is an exciting opportunity. It is also a challenge because learning to adjust to a different language and way of life takes time, and support.

The Host Program can help by introducing you to a resident Canadian friend in your community -- someone who lives here and can help you settle in.

A Friend in Canada

Your new friend is volunteering time to be with you. As well as practising English or French with you, he or she could talk to you about community services, such as: introducing you to social and recreational activities; shopping for groceries and other items; registering your children for school; and using local transportation, telephone and other utilities that are available to you.

Your new Canadian friend will not provide living accommodations or money, but will be happy to assist you in many ways that can make your first months in Canada much easier.

No cost to join the Host Program

There is no cost to join the Host Program. Spending time with your new friend will assist you to learn about your new community and participate in community activities. As well, this could benefit you in finding a job or in using community services.

Let's Meet

Canadians who participate in the Host Program are proud of their country and culture, and they are interested in learning about yours. Join the Host Program to help make Canada your home.

Become a Volunteer

What does it mean to be a volunteer host?

As a volunteer for the HOST program you become a guide to life in the community. In return you open a whole new world of friendship. volunteer hosts are carefully matched with newcomers: your new friend will have similar interests, perhaps work in the sane profession, or share your goals and ambitions. It's an exciting chance to learn and make new friends.

What do you need to do?

Join in. As a volunteer host, you show your new friend how Canadian life works and what being a resident Canadian is all about.

How much time do I need to set aside?

We ask for a commitment of about an hour-and-a-half per week for a minimum of six months. The time it takes to go to a show, or for a walk through the community. Of course, you can spend as much time as you like with your friend as you get to know each other. You make make your own schedule.

How much money do I have to commit as a  volunteer Host?

You do not need to make any financial commitment. You are simply asked to spend time with your new friend--not money..

How do I benefit from being a volunteer Host?

The Host Program is the perfect chance for you to make a new friend and to participate in an exchange of cultural information. In addition you will have helped your friend become part of our community, and soon, an active member of Canadian society.

What exactly do I have to do?

We ask for a commitment of about an hour-and-a-half per week for a minimum of six months. The time it takes to go to a show, or for a walk through the community. Of course, you can spend as much time as you like with your friend as you get to know each other. You make make your own schedule.

How do I become a volunteer Host?

Complete and mail in your application today. Click here for an Application.

For more information please contact us at 613-968-7723 or email:

s.pegg@quis-immigration.org