Settlement Workers

SWIS stands for Settlement Workers in Schools. This free program is available to all newcomer families in Niagara and provides support as you settle into your new community and school system.

About the Program

The SWIS program is a partnership between the YMCA of Niagara, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN), and the Niagara Catholic District School Board (NCDSB).

Settlement workers help connect newcomer families with schools and community services to support a successful transition.

Learn more: Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

How Settlement Workers Support Families

Settlement workers can meet with families to:

  • share information about language classes, health care, housing, and employment
  • help families understand and navigate the school system
  • connect families with community programs and supports

Meetings can take place at your child’s school or at the Welcome Centre. You can choose the location that works best for your family.

Contact a Settlement Worker

NameLanguagesEmail / Cell
Rohaina Saqib
(SWIS Coordinator)
Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, Pashtorohaina.saqib@niagara.ymca.ca
289-668-3207
Alice LeeMandarinalice.lee@niagara.ymca.ca
289-668-3214
Nouha AsswadArabicnouha.asswad@niagara.ymca.ca
905-650-9239
Amal AboukalamArabicamal.aboukalam@niagara.ymca.ca
905-359-0414
Rafael ArguetaSpanishrafael.argueta@niagara.ymca.ca
289-668-3203
Eduardo AvilaSpanisheduardo.avila@niagara.ymca.ca
289-929-0110
Seunghee KoKoreanseunghee.ko@niagara.ymca.ca
289-668-3197