Starting over in Canada as a newcomer has many challenges—finding a new place to live, adapting to the language and culture, and of course, finding employment. To help newcomers learn a variety of skills, and prepare for different careers, the Employment Team offers Workforce Participation Programs (WPPs). During the last week of April, the Employment…
The Issue: Barriers to Accessing Canada Child Benefits for Newcomers For many newcomer families in Canada, accessing the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a critical step toward achieving financial stability. The CCB provides eligible families with tax-free monthly payments to help cover the costs of raising children. However, many newcomers face significant challenges when trying…
Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) Settlement and Integration program hosted its annual FREE Tax Clinic for individuals and families with low income, from March 3 to May 16, 2025. To better assist the community, the tax clinic at AHC’s main office in Edmonton will continue until May 16, operating Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM…
Our Community Initiative (CI) leaders shared their unique and informative perspective on community-building at our first Community of Practice (CoP) mini gathering of 2025, held on April 26, 2025. The energy in the room was uplifting as 11 ethno-cultural CI groups came together for an afternoon of learning, dialogue, and community-building. This quarterly event provided…
We at Action for Healthy Communities are deeply saddened by the tragic incident during Lapu-Lapu Day in Vancouver earlier this week. We extend our condolences to the victims, their families, the Filipino community across Canada, and all others in the City of Vancouver who were affected by this tragedy.
The March 15, 2025, Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC) review meeting was a successful forum for Community Initiative Groups to present their impactful ideas for community well-being. Initiatives ranged from promoting physical and mental wellness to fostering connection through language, culture, and traditions. Representatives presented to four CDAC members, who offered valuable feedback to ensure…
On March 7, 2025, Action for Healthy Communities organized and hosted an enriching Entrepreneurship Grant Writing Bootcamp, which was specifically aimed at equipping participants with the essential knowledge and practical tools they need to successfully secure financial grants for their businesses. “I attended private grant workshops before, but this one far surpassed anything I learned…
They say life is sweeter with chocolates. But what’s even sweeter is making a living by making chocolates. Yereni Ramirez is the heart and hands behind Chocolate Don Marín, an exceptional business deeply rooted in rich tradition, boundless creativity, and unyielding passion. Yereni has been a dedicated participant in our AHC Entrepreneurship Support Programs, diligently…
On March 25, 2025, Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) hosted its highly anticipated semi-annual Career Fair at the Signature Sandman Hotel in Downtown Edmonton. The event brought together 23 prominent Employer Partners from diverse industries and over 350 participants, creating a vibrant atmosphere of opportunity and networking. This career fair is crucial to AHC’s ongoing…
On February 22nd, 2025, the ELYCA (Empowering Leadership in Youth through Community Action) Program of Action for Healthy Communities had an amazing opportunity to host its Youth Action Forum and Impact Sharing event at the Santa Marie Goretti Centre in Edmonton. The event was attended by a diverse group of community members and youth from…