Community readiness for building newcomer belonging: City of Chestermere, AB
Abstract
The Community Newcomer Needs Assessment is an opportunity for municipalities to
learn about the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps of local services and supports for newcomers, and challenges the communities to develop a plan to address gaps and weaknesses; help municipalities assess challenges for newcomers provide information about the immigration process.
Key strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in services and various challenges and opportunities for newcomers are identified in this report through the lens of the newcomer journey and the newcomer developing a sense of belonging.
Notes
Open-access – Yes
Location
- Chestermere
-
Alberta
Key recommendations
- Collaborate with service groups for newcomers
- More education surrounding mental health and cultural sensitivity in healthcare
- Increase education on DEI elements, and on racism
Key populations
Newcomers
Key findings
- Though services and information available may be good quality, service providers have lower awareness of resources for newcomers in Chestermere, and it is not easy to access services as well.
- There is little areas of rent that are affordable, and accessible, and many residents do not believe enough affordable housing is offered, with housing costs above the provincial average, with no subsidies provided. There is also no shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness
- There is a transit link to Calgary currently started, as well as provision of discounted passes, though there are only 4 times a day it is provided. There is also no transit for travel within Chestermere, or other regions outside, and was identified as a large barrier
- A 2020 Survey indicated that only 11% of participants believed that enough employment opportunities were provided in Chestermere
- Little academic programs are provided to individuals with low education, and programs to learn English are sparse, and do not fit the needs of students.
- Healthcare is not accessible, with all of the clinics currently unable to accept new patients, and little cultural sensitivity training provided.
- Low engagement for newcomers, as well as little opportunities to host community events makes it difficult to engage newcomers, as well as providing cultural days
- Instances of racism are present, though individuals mentioned not knowing where to go to report such instances.
- There is intentional effort to increase inclusion, as well as equity and diversity, in order to support newcomers. Training for DEI has been provided to the staff of the City of Chestermere, and many organizations are aware of the need to improve DEI practices.
Integration timeline
Gaps identified
Community organizations
