Newcomer Match ProgramNewcomer Match Program
Benefits

To the senior:

  • Learn about cultures and traditions of other countries
  • Create new social interactions
  • Give back to the community 

To the newcomer:

  • Receive help with integrating into the community and to life in Canada/PEI (Canadian/PEI culture and traditions, community resources, recreational opportunities, etc.)
  • Develop new social connections within the community 
  • An opportunity to practice English (if needed)

Who can apply?

  • Seniors of 55 years and older and living in Stratford (seniors can volunteer by themselves or with their spouse or partner)
  • Newcomer residing in Stratford. The newcomer can be one person, a couple or a family
  • Newcomers who have moved to Stratford from any other town or province within Canada or from any other country in the world
  • Willingness to commit to the program for at least 1 year
  • Matches are required to meet at least 2 hours per month (more meetings are also possible at the availability of both parties)

Note: Patience, kindness, an open mind and interest in other cultures are important qualities of volunteers enrolled in this program.

How to apply?

Seniors:

  • Fill out and submit the application form 
  • Provide a criminal record check (letter to be provided by the Town of Stratford upon receipt and approval of your application)
  • Attend a culture training session to facilitate interaction with newcomers
  • Attend a group information session and meet & greet at the Town of Stratford

Newcomers:

  • Fill out and submit the application form
  • Attend a group information session and meet & greet at the Town of Stratford

Activities or events

Below are some examples of activities that newcomers and seniors can do together:

  • Attend a Town event together (seniors can help newcomers navigate local traditions, events, rules and customs)
  • Practice a sport or hobby that both enjoy or are willing to try (e.g. sport, music, chess, knitting, painting, hiking, etc.)
  • Visit heritage sites to expand newcomers’ knowledge
  • Hold a potluck dinner together (recipes exchange)
  • Community mentoring (Help newcomers identify where to go for shopping, to get their drivers license or find a walk in clinic, etc. , and/or how to access information about living in PEI/Stratford)
  • Networking (e.g. join a local club or volunteer together)