Newcomers to Ontario are being assisted by a new one-stop source of information called Settlement Ontario.

The Internet site was presented in a workshop at the Sudbury Multicultural Folk Arts Association (SMFAA) on Van Horne St. Friday (Nov. 17).

“Our site, www.settlement.org, helps immigrants access information on employment, how to translate foreign credentials into Canadian qualifications, English classes, consumer information, education for children, community and recreation and much more,” said Miranda Harpell, outreach coordinator for the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants. They manage the site for the federal Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Niranjan Mishra, board member of the SMFAA said the new website will help immigrants access the services they need to relocate to Sudbury even if they currently reside in foreign lands.

“What is most important is that people outside Canada can learn what is expected of them and how they can prepare to come here, to settle here as quickly as possible and make a contribution to our community,” said Mishra.

For example, there is information in publications and guides that can be downloaded in 25 languages. By selecting various cities, newcomers can zero in on local workshops, events, organizations and special sites with help and services for professionals like doctors or engineers, or even specific groups like lesbians and gays, people with disabilities or seniors and other family members like children.

For more information, phone the Sudbury Multicultural Folk Arts Association at 674-0795 or visit www.settlement.org.