b'SETTLING IN WITHA Day in the Life of a Zone Settlement Worker Administrative tasks are also a significant part of the day, including client intake, filing, client tracking, email A Zone Settlement Workers day is a dynamic blend ofcorrespondence, and assisting clients with important support and guidance for newcomers navigating their newdocuments and IRCC reporting.community, said Misty Belcourt, Manager of Community & Settlement Services. Staff welcome daily walk-ins andA substantial portion of the day is dedicated to accompanying complete initial intakes with them, as well as support existingfamilies to schools, helping overcome cultural and language clients with various ongoing needs. barriers, and liaising with hospitals and dentists to facilitate communication for medical appointments. They also assist The day involves extensive client interaction, with many clientswith government interactions, such as with Employment and learning about the Ren Deleurme Centre through wordIncome Assistance (EIA) for annual assessments, and vital of mouth and other service providers. While staff prioritizestatistics for client representation.families in the LRSD catchment area, they make everyone feel welcome, often going the extra mile to ensure people feelHome visits are crucial for delivering food, assessing client supported and connected with appropriate services. needs, and assisting refugees with low English proficiency to understand and navigate official correspondence required for their settlement. Zone workers provide practical help like bus training, food bank registration, income tax communication, and helping people apply for the rent assist program.Community engagement is another aspect, with workers participating in various sectors and community committees. They work hard to network and build relationships with other service providers and school staff, benefiting their clients.Referrals to appropriate agencies:Staff are amazing problem solvers and often do this on the fly, Connecting clients with specializedas clients come in with a broad array of needs. The needs of services for language, employment,clients are diverse and ever-changing, ensuring no two days gender-specific violence, disabilities,are the same. Staff collaborate with other Service Provider 2SLGBTQIA+, mental health, and seniors. Organizations (SPOs) and assist clients with transitions, such as changing utilities or schools when moving. Oral interpretation: Offering direct interpretation services for immediateIn essence, the life of a Zone Settlement Worker is filled with settlement needs. opportunities to make a significant impact on the lives of newcomers, fostering a sense of belonging and helping themMaintaining positive relationships:establish their new lives with confidence and support, said Working with local serving agencies,Misty. Its a role characterized by compassion, adaptability, other Zone providers, stakeholders, andand a deep commitment to community service.community partners to deliver coordinated settlement services. Future of the Zone Settlement Program Organizing group programming: OfferingThe Zone Settlement Program is in the final year of its programs based on client needs, suchmulti-year funding agreement. The team looks forward to as English conversation circles, youthsigning the next contribution agreement with IRCC. Its goal wellness activities, cooking and nutritionis to ensure the Zone Settlement Program can continue workshops, parenting support, and more.to meet the needs of clients within LRSD, with plans for Transportation support and childcare areexpansion, improvements, and adaptations to better serve available for group programs.the community.These services are not exhaustive but illustrate the breadth of support provided to LRSD newcomer families.35'