Being a refugee in Canada is undeniably difficult, especially if you have young children or are a caregiver of one. First Steps understands and aims to help you and your family settle in Canada, through developmental support. Our goal is to support and assist newcomer families so they can gradually transition into mainstream services and resources.
Learn about parenting in a Canadian context, meet other parents who share and understand the experience of raising children in a new country, and get the support you and your children need to succeed in the community and school.
At First Steps, you will be provided with:
- Parent/child drop-in
- Parenting Support
- Social interaction, bonding and play
- Nutrition and health information
- Mental health counselling
- Father's groups, and more
First Steps also hosts the Mother Goose and Nobody’s Perfect Parenting programs, which helps you learn about parenting in a Canadian context.
Curious about our First Steps Program? Check out a recent video tour!
Eligibility criteria
For government or privately-sponsored refugee families with children (ages 6 and under) wanting to learn about parenting in a Canadian context. Contact 778.868.1802.
Can you access the program directly?
Other information
Location(s)
First Steps (Newton)
201 - 7380 137 Street
Surrey, BC V3W 1A3
First Steps (Guildford) - Umoja
14888 104 Avenue
Surrey, BC V3R 1M4
Contact(s)
Shelby Gordon
Program Manager
604.842.0780
shelby.gordon@options.bc.ca
Cassey Natura
Program Assistant Manager
201 - 7380 137 Street
Surrey, BC V3W 1A3
778.868.1802
first.steps@options.bc.ca
Funder(s)
First Steps is a collaborative project operated by Options Community Services Society, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society and Umoja African Family Services.
Funding is provided by the Ministry of Children and Family Development, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, School District 36 and the City of Surrey.