Peel Region is a wonderful place to raise a family. Our community has many programs, services and support for every member of your family. We have the resources available that will help your family adjust to living here. Getting involved and using our community services can help you build the best new life possible.
Children, childcare, and child benefits |
Child safety resourcesWhen leaving children alone for the first time, parents should speak with them to see if they feel comfortable on their own. Explain to the child where you are going, and specify how long you'll be gone. Make sure that the child is emotionally and physically ready to be left alone.
Peel Police Safety TipsPeel Police offers safety tips to help keep children safe and out of trouble. Car Safety for ChildrenIf you have small children, it is important to know that in Ontario there are special laws for transporting children in cars. These laws are meant to protect children in case of car accidents. For more information visit Car Seat safety website. Child abuse preventionIf you believe a child is being abused, you need to report it. It's the law. To report abuse you simple make a phone call and you do not have to give your personal information. ChildcareRegion of Peel has programs and resources for parents of children aged 0 – 6 years and for children with special needs. The programs and services are free to all parents and caregivers of young children. There are two types of child care: licensed and unlicensed. Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care PlanWith the new Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Plan you’ll pay 53% less for licensed childcare in 2023. For example, the average cost of quality childcare for a toddler will be $32/day starting in January. Find licensed child care centresChild Care Info Peel - 905-890-9432 is a free phone service where you can get a list of licensed child care centres in your area. They also provide information and resources to help you choose a child care option that best suits your family's needs. Child care grantsLicensed Child Care Fee Subsidy is a grant available from the government to help eligible families pay for licensed childcare for children up to 12 years. You will need to apply and must meet eligibility criteria. Child benefitsThe Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides information on child and family benefits. Community resources
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Couples |
Counselling is available for mental health and wellness support or for marriage counseling. |
LGBTQ |
In Peel region, you will find a set of support services for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, intersex, queer, questioning and Two-Spirit (LGBTTIQQ2S+) people. These services will support you with making healthy, safe choices and connect you with resources to build a sense of community, reduce feeling disconnected and improve access to important services you need. Support agencies
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Parents |
EarlyON centres offer free high-quality drop-in programs for families and children from birth to 6 years old. You can learn and play with your child, meet people and get advice from early childhood professionals. Other useful resources for parents
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Seniors |
Peel has a variety of services and resources for older adults, seniors and their families and caregivers, to help them stay healthy and vibrant. It can be difficult and frustrating for a newcomer senior to understand and adapt to the new ways of doing things in a new country. Visiting your nearest newcomer settlement agency will help you find the right support and connect to the services and resources available for you in Peel. Older adult/seniors clubsCaledon, Brampton and Mississauga have several seniors clubs and community groups where you can meet new friends and enjoy many activities. Faith and worship centresPeel has many places of faith and worship where you can meet families from your own faith and culture. Recreation programsThe Town of Caledon, City of Brampton and City of Mississauga offer many recreation programs to help you stay healthy and active. Most of these programs offer discounted rates for seniors. Public transit discountsSeniors can pay discounted fares on public transit when travelling across Peel and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Seniors' programs and computer classesThe Afghan Women's Organization offers seniors' programs and the Peel Multicultural Council offers computer classes that focus on social media. Pension and other financial assistance programsIf you are 65 years or older you could be eligible for some federal government benefits including: You must meet specific residency or contribution requirements to be eligible for these benefits and, some newcomer seniors may not qualify for these programs. International benefitsHowever, some newcomer seniors might qualify for International Benefits. Canada has social security agreements with various countries that help senior newcomers qualify for pensions from Canada and those countries. Other useful resources
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Youth |
Newcomer youth often face many challenges in adjusting to a new environment, culture and language. Many settlement agencies also offer newcomer youth based programs designed specially to make your transition smooth to Canada by promoting a positive and safe environment that encourages independence, confidence and engagement in your community. Youth centresPeel has many youth centres that offer social and recreational activities, information and support, counselling/mentoring and in some cases employment assistance. Other useful resources
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