The Huron Welcome Hub, which helps support newcomers to Huron County, held its annual meeting at the Huron County Museum in Goderich on Tuesday, April 14.
President Halina Zaleski reviewed the activities of the Hub, which provides support to newcomers who need help connecting with services in the county. The Hub also provides some services directly, such as transportation, housing assistance. Its members volunteer at various events in the county aimed at newcomers. The Hub also supports conversation circles at libraries in Goderich and Exeter for those wanting to practise English skills.
The Hub’s Facebook page is an active information source that offers insight to help migrants settle in Huron County, highlighting local events, showcasing local services that support newcomers, identifying learning opportunities, detailing job fairs and more.
Jannat Naima was elected as a new member of the steering group, replacing retiring member Peter Hrudka, while Sinead Cox and Chris Mewhort were relected to new terms, joining returning members Zaleski, Moe Sabin, Nick Gelensye, Patti Tasko, Kubra Hasanoglu and Emma Hunking.
The roots of the Hub can be traced to 2022, when Ukrainian families started arriving in Canada under a special visa to escape the invasion of their country by Russia. The focus has grown to encompass all newcomers, with a goal of connecting them to the resources that can help them settle in.
Approximately 4,200 immigrants live in Huron County, with about 270 arriving in recent years. They include permanent residents, students and international temporary workers. Almost half of them work in the agriculture and health care sectors, providing essential services for the region.
Huron Welcome Hub for Newcomers 
Leave a comment