Tapestry Project Evaluation
Abstract
Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) and The Immigrant Education Society (TIES) are non-profit organizations based in Calgary that support newcomers in integrating and finding belonging in Canada. Recognizing a need within Calgary’s immigrant and newcomer communities for systems navigation support and facilitated pathways into mental health supports, in 2023/2024 CCIS and TIES partnered to develop the Tapestry Project. In 2024, the Tapestry Project worked to weave together community outreach, awareness-raising, systems navigation, and capacity building to increase access to mental health supports for newcomers in Calgary.
Notes
Future research / gaps identified:
Need for systems navigation support for and facilitated pathways into mental health supports.
Key findings:
-
Mental health workshops are effective in
- Generating community dialogue
- Increasing awareness of mental health and available supports / resources
- Reducing the stigma of discussing mental health
- Building community capacity
- Encouraging community members to connect with supports.
- A community centered approach creates a sense of trust and belonging among participants.
Key populations:
- Afghan Community
- Pakistani Community
- Ukrainian Community
- South Sudanese Community
- Palestinian Community (focus on Muslin women)
- Ethiopian Community
Key recommendations:
- Continue connecting with communities and navigating individuals through systems.
- Seek opportunities to share leanings and success factors of the Tapestry Project.
- Seek opportunities to provide training to community leaders, service providers, and interpreters.
Location: Calgary, AB
Open access: Yes
Community organizations:
- Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)
- The Immigrant Education Society (TIES)
Integration timeline: N/A
