Catholic Immigration Centre / Centre catholique pour immigrantsBuilding A Welcoming Community
About Us
 

History

In 1953 the Archdiocese of Ottawa began offering basic support to immigrants and refugees. As the demand for services increased, the Catholic Immigration Services - Ottawa (CIS) was formally set up in 1976. A Board of Directors was appointed and CIS was staffed with a coordinator and volunteer staff.

In response to the 1978-1981 Southeast Asian refugee crises, CIS expanded and added more staff.

In 1984 the Archdiocese and CIS mutually agreed that the agency should incorporate as an autonomous organization. The Catholic Immigration Centre (CIC) came into existence as a community based non-profit organization in 1985.

In 1990 CIC moved to its current location, then called The Newcomer Centre, at 219 Argyle.

In 2000 the generosity of the Sisters of Charity ended CIC’s mortgages and debt burdens. In honour of their contribution, the building was renamed The Bruyère Centre for Immigrants.

In 2006 CIC began to expand its programs and services, developing new partnerships and initiatives to meet the needs of newcomers and the Ottawa community.

In 2007 CIC's budget and services saw a significant growth with the budget almost doubling from the previous fiscal year. 

CIC is optimistic about the future as it continues to expand its programs and services.

Mission

THE CATHOLIC IMMIGRATION CENTRE:

  • promotes and facilitates the reception of newcomers to Canada;
  • sensitizes the community to address newcomers’ needs and invites it to respond; and
  • assists newcomers in realizing their full potential in Canadian society.

WE ARE GUIDED BY THE FOLLOWING PRINCIPLES:

  • commitment to social justice in all policies, programs and services;
  • provision of assistance to newcomers regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, age, mental or physical ability;
  • use of approaches that are empowering, client-centered, and that address the physical, psychological, social and spiritual dimensions of the person;
  • recognition of the central importance of the human resources of the Centre - volunteers, staff and members;
  • commitment to provide services in both official languages;
  • provision of multilingual services to newcomers;
  • commitment to work with related agencies, community organizations, and various faith groups, especially the parishes of the area; and
  • accountability to stakeholders - funders, creditors and the community-at-large.

OUR SERVICES TO NEWCOMERS INCLUDE:

  • temporary accommodations and housing assistance;
  • orientation, settlement, and integration;
  • language and cultural interpretation;
  • intercultural counselling, hosting and community support;
  • community development, education, and outreach; and
  • employment searches.