Welcoming Newcomers. Strengthening Communities.
About Us
LRISS is a community-based, IRCC-funded program that supports newcomers as they settle, grow, and thrive in Lanark and Renfrew Counties. Whether you’ve just arrived in Canada or are already beginning your journey, our team is here to walk alongside you.
Our free services are mobile, and staff will be able to meet you in the community where you live.
We are proud to serve newcomers of all backgrounds, including:
- Permanent Residents
- Government-Assisted and Privately Sponsored Refugees
- Individuals with pending permanent residence applications
- Convention refugees
- Temporary foreign worker or student who has obtained initial approval for a concurrent application for permanent residence.
Not sure if you are eligible? – please reach out and we will refer you to a program that can help.
We work from a place of cultural humility, compassion, and collaboration—ensuring all newcomers feel welcomed, heard, and empowered.
Where We Work
LRISS serves all communities across Lanark and Renfrew Counties, with staff based in three core locations:
- Perth (Lanark County Administration Building)
- Carleton Place (Lanark County Social Services satellite office)
- Pembroke (Renfrew County Administration Building)
- Petawawa (Petawawa Public Library)
Our Services
We provide free, confidential settlement support tailored to your individual needs. Our services include:
| Needs Assessment & Settlement Planning |
| Our settlement workers are here to provide one-on-one support, answer your questions and help you find the resources you need in your community. Through the help of community partnerships, we work with you to build your network and further enhance your experience in transitioning into a new culture. We will start the settlement process with a one-on-one meeting to assess your needs and create your own settlement plan to help you and your family achieve your goals.
Here are some ways we can help:
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| Information & Orientation |
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We help you understand how life works in Canada. Topics include:
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| Community Referrals |
| We connect you with the right services—ESL programs, Service Canada, libraries, schools, housing supports, food banks, and more. |
| SWIS - Settlement Worker in Schools |
Our dedicated School-Based Settlement Worker, providing direct support to newcomer students and their families within school settings across Lanark and Renfrew Counties. Through close collaboration with school staff and community partners, Swiss helps newcomer children integrate smoothly into the Canadian school system.
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| Case Management |
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For newcomers with more complex needs, we offer extended support and goal tracking. We’ll help you every step of the way, one goal at a time. |
| Group Sessions & Community Events |
| We host newcomer meetups, info sessions, and cultural orientation activities in partnership with local libraries, schools, and service providers. |
| For Emergencies |
| Please call 911 – and for medical issues reach out to the nearest hospital. |
Our Values
- Welcoming: We are here for all newcomers—no matter their story.
- Respectful: We listen and support with care and confidentiality.
- Connected: We build bridges with community partners to get you what you need.
- Empowering: We believe in your strengths and future.
Future Plans
We are growing—and so is our community. We’re developing new workshops, programs, and community events to ensure every newcomer has the tools and support to succeed. Stay tuned for updates, including our upcoming ESL conversation circles, family summer programs, and more.
Volunteer with Us
Are you interested in supporting newcomers in Lanark and Renfrew Counties? Fill out the form below and a member of our team will reach out to you.
ESL Conversation Circles Currently Running
| Petawawa Public Library |
| 📍 Address: 16 Civic Centre Rd, Petawawa, ON K8H 3H5
📞 Phone: (613) 687-2227 🌐 https://petawawapubliclibrary.ca/program/esl-conversation-circle-2/ |
| Deep River Public Library |
| 📍 Address: 55 Ridge Rd, Deep River, ON K0J 1P0
📞 Phone: (613) 584-4244 🌐 https://www.deepriverlibrary.ca/events/learn-english-with-lana-johnston/ |
| Arnprior Public Library |
| 📍 Address: 21 Madawaska St, Arnprior, ON K7S 1R6
📞 Phone: (613) 623-2279 🌐https://arnpriorlibrary.ca/events/english-as-a-second-language/ |
Contact Us
Have questions? Need support? We’re here for you.
Program Coordinator - Adam Amza
99 Christie Lake Road, Perth, ON
9 International Drive, Pembroke, ON
Phone: 343-402-8630
Email: settlement@lanarkcounty.ca
Or use our Contact Form to get in touch.
About the Rural Community Inclusion Pilot Project:
The Rural Community Inclusion Pilot Project is a collaborative initiative between Lanark and Renfrew counties, funded by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) Rural Economic Development (RED) program. Our mission is to create a more inclusive, diverse, and economically vibrant community by connecting local businesses with skilled newcomers and fostering a welcoming environment.
| Overview |
| At the heart of this project is the introduction of a shared Settlement + Recruitment Coordinator for Lanark and Renfrew, whose role is pivotal in bridging the gap between local businesses seeking talent and newcomers seeking opportunities. The coordinator is funded until March 31, 2026, and will help to connect businesses with skilled newcomers by understanding their needs and offering guidance for a smooth transition, ensuring a welcoming community where everyone can thrive. |
| Connect |
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Connect with the Settlement + Recruitment Coordinator: If you're a newcomer seeking job opportunities or support with settling into the community, or if you're a local business looking to enhance your team, our Settlement + Recruitment Coordinator is here to assist you. To connect with the coordinator and explore collaboration opportunities: Linda Alexander Email: lalexander@lanarkcounty.ca Phone: 613-283-7002 x108 Further resources for newcomers can be found at the Local Immigration Partnership. |
| Project Partners |
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Lead: Lanark County Co-lead: Renfrew County Supporting Partner: Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporation |
Contact Us