This program offers newcomers a unique opportunity to ease their transition into a new community and culture. In a supportive group environment, participants can share their experiences, learn from one another, and better understand local resources, cultural norms, and day-to-day expectations. Further, the program guides parents in developing awareness of different parenting styles within their new environment, while also helping them understand Canadian lifestyles and the Canadian education system. Parents gain insight into how schools and daycare operate, preparing them to recognize cultural differences and respond confidently as their children adjust to these settings. Opportunities are created for parents to practice spoken English, build communication skills, and strengthen their ability to support their children and families as they settle into life in Canada.

When newcomer families arrive in Canada, teenagers often find themselves navigating multiple worlds as they adjust to school and a new culture. At the same time, parents may struggle to understand these experiences, which can lead to communication challenges and tension at home. This workshop helps families explore their relationships, recognize their strengths, and reflect on the obstacles they have already overcome before coming to Canada. The program also provides a safe space for both parents and teens to express their feelings, reduce conflict, and build stronger understanding between one another.

Food for Thought is a welcoming prenatal nutrition program designed for pregnant refugee and immigrant women, international students, and spouses who may be feeling isolated or facing extra challenges. Through a strong partnership between the Saskatoon Open Door Society and the Saskatoon Health Region, this program is co-facilitated by staff from both organizations and takes place at the West Wind Primary Health Centre.

Supported by the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, Food for Thought offers more than nutrition education—it creates a supportive community where families can build connections, ask questions, and learn how to access public health resources and local services. The goal is to help expectant parents feel supported, informed, and confident as they prepare to welcome their new baby into the world.

In educational workshops, new mothers with babies less than 6 months old learn about preparing food for their infant, speech and language development, dental health and the importance of play. Childcare and transportation are available.

To help expecting parents feel safe and confident in preparing for the delivery of their baby, we provide information and a tour of the maternity ward at Royal University Hospital.