Hamilton's Welcoming Week
Photos by Sidra Gul
Welcoming Week took place September 10-19, 2026!
Welcoming Week is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging in their local community, no matter where they come from.
We recognize the important work of many immigrant settlement organizations in this space. Welcoming Week is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of these activities.
Hamilton Welcome Event
Starting a new life in a new community comes with both opportunities and challenges. As part of Welcoming Week, nearly 200 newcomers, community organizations, and service providers came together at Central Library for our 4th Annual Hamilton Welcome Event.
The afternoon featured an information fair with over 20 participating organizations, along with presentations on topics such as the newcomer journey, library services, mental health supports, legal pathways, and employment services.
Attendees also had the opportunity to have their resumes reviewed by employment specialists from the Immigrants Working Centre and get a professional LinkedIn photo taken to support their job search. Finally, there was art on display made by talented newcomer youth from the YMCA’s Newcomer Youth program.
A special thank you to Good Shepherd and the Hamilton Public Library for sponsoring this year’s event, and to our working group for helping plan and coordinate the day. Thank you to our volunteers for their help in making this event a success.
We look forward to next year’s welcoming event, and we thank everyone who helped create a warm and informative experience for Hamilton’s newcomer community.
2026 Event Program
The information and services fair featured 20+ local organizations that help newcomers access various resources, programs, and support services.
The event featured presentations on:
- Employment Services (FedCap)
- Hamilton Public Library Services (HPL)
- Legal Pathways and Changes (Refugee Law Office)
- Mental Health (Hamilton Urban Core Community Health Centre)
- Sense of Belonging (Lania, Newcomer to Hamilton)
Attendees were invited to bring their resumes to get feedback from experienced employment specialists.
Drop-in activity where guests could receive a free professional headshot for their LinkedIn profile or for any of their job search needs.