On March 24, the North East Toronto Local Immigration Partnership Faith & Welcoming Communities Forum brought together faith leaders, settlement agencies, community organizations, public sector partners, advocates, and residents for a day of meaningful dialogue, shared learning, and collaboration. With strong representation from both diverse faith communities and the settlement sector, the forum created space to explore how partnerships can help address hate, strengthen community safety, and build more inclusive and welcoming neighbourhoods across Toronto.
Through presentations, facilitated discussions, and interactive conversations, participants reflected on the important role faith communities play in supporting newcomers, fostering belonging, and reducing barriers to services. Key challenges identified throughout the day included housing insecurity, misinformation, systemic inequities, language barriers, and gaps in access to culturally responsive supports. At the same time, participants highlighted promising practices already making a difference — including interfaith initiatives, grassroots partnerships, community-led outreach, and collaborative approaches to newcomer support.
The 7th annual forum strengthened cross-sector relationships, increased awareness of newcomer experiences and community resources, and identified clear priorities for future collaboration. Most importantly, it reinforced the importance of coordinated, community-driven action in advancing equity, inclusion, and belonging across North East Toronto. We are grateful to everyone who participated and contributed to such a powerful and inspiring day, and we look forward to continuing this work together through a growing interfaith and inter-sector network.
If you are interested in participating in Faith & Settlement collaboration work, you can reach out to Giovanni to get involved at giovanni@torontonorthlip.ca
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