YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka partners with Barrie Public Library, police on newcomer program

Newcomers to Barrie are being offered some free sessions that could give them a leg up on some of the social services available to them.

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka says it is renewing its partnership with the Barrie Police Service and the Barrie Public Library to bring back its Creating Connections series for a second year.

The series is for newcomers to learn about community programs and services, while creating a space where they can make connections to those programs and to each other.

The program includes three sessions, one at each partner location. The first of three was held on April 10 at the YMCA Immigrant Services office, while community members, newcomers, and their families are invited to attend the next two sessions.

Session two takes place at the Holly branch of the Barrie Library on May 1 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with session three taking place on June 5 at the Barrie Police Service headquarters during the same time frame.

Each of three sessions is centred around themes of spring, community, and community helpers. They include family story times, interactive games, and opportunities to learn more about community, library, and police services.

“This collaborative program demonstrates the heart of our work: helping newcomers feel welcomed and supported to take part in community life both socially and culturally,” says Jill Tettmann, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, which spearheaded the partnership.