Programs made for seniors
These programs are designed for older women, at a pace that suits you.
Everyday English for Seniors
What it is: English for daily life, built for older adults. Practise speaking and writing, learn about services for seniors, and go on field trips to use your English in real places.
Who it’s for: Immigrant seniors 55 and older. Open to women and men, including citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and refugee claimants.
How it runs: Online and in person, Monday to Friday. Morning classes 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, afternoon classes 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm.
Contact: ees@ciwa.org
What you can gain:
- Practise speaking and writing for everyday life
- Learn about services for seniors
- Field trips to use your English in real places
- Confidence to take part in your community
Part of: Language Training
Learn more: [Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA]
Quote:
[No testimonial in the source. Add one, with consent, when available.]
Funded By

Culturally Responsive Counselling for Seniors
What it is: One-on-one counselling that respects your culture and life experience, to help you connect with the community and feel a sense of belonging. Includes workshops, group wellness activities, and Grandma’s Kitchen.
Who it’s for: Immigrant women aged 50 and over, who are permanent residents.
How it runs: By phone, video call, in person at the CIWA main office, or a home visit.
Contact: noreenm@ciwa.org, 403-263-4414 ext. 147
What you can gain:
- Individual counselling sessions
- Educational workshops on women’s health, mental health, and overall wellbeing
- Group wellness and community engagement activities
- Intergenerational activities connecting seniors and youth
- Grandma’s Kitchen
- Home visits
Part of: Wellbeing and Resiliency
Learn more: [Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA]
Quote:
CIWA helped me see that healing is possible, even in a new country and at my age. With the right support, I found the courage to rebuild my life, and joy I never thought to feel again.
– Liangwen, 79
Funded By

Grandma's Kitchen
What it is: A place for senior women to cook, eat, and talk together. Group discussions, outings, coffee gatherings, and seasonal celebrations, where every woman is known by name.
Who it’s for: Senior immigrant women.
Contact: noreenm@ciwa.org
What you can gain:
- Cook and share meals together
- Group discussions and coffee gatherings
- Outings and seasonal celebrations
- A community where you are known by name
Part of: Culturally Responsive Counselling for Seniors, Wellbeing and Resiliency
Learn more: [Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA]
Quote:
[No testimonial in the source. Add one, with consent, when available.]
Funded By
Pursuit of Happiness for Immigrant Seniors
What it is: [Program content to be supplied.]
Funded By
Other programs open to you
These programs welcome women of every age, and many seniors take part. See the full details on each program’s page.
New Friends and Neighbourhood Groups
What it is: A friendly drop-in group to practise English conversation, meet other women, and learn about your community.
Part of: Language Training
Learn more: See the full program on the Language Training page.
Funded By
Mindfulness Hut
What it is: Two private rooms where you can rest and take time for yourself. Free, by booking.
Part of: Wellbeing and Resiliency
Learn more: See the full program on the Wellbeing and Resiliency page.
Funded By
Mental Health and Addiction Support
What it is: Counselling in your first language for mental health, addiction, or grief, for you or your family.
Part of: Wellbeing and Resiliency
Learn more: See the full program on the Wellbeing and Resiliency page.
Funded By
Settlement Support
What it is: Help understanding the services around you and how things work in Canada, one to one or in a group.
Part of: Settlement
Learn more: See the full program on the Settlement page.
Funded By
Legal Clinic
What it is: Free, confidential legal information and guidance on family and immigration matters.
Part of: Settlement
Learn more: See the full program on the Settlement page.
Funded By
Tax Clinic
What it is: Free, confidential legal information and guidance on family and immigration matters.
Part of: Settlement
Learn more: See the full program on the Settlement page.
Funded By
What women tell us
These programs welcome women of every age, and many seniors take part.
“My life is hard, I am sad, I cry, but I come to class, I am happy. I like my teacher and classmates. I practice and I forget sad. I can talk to people, I can go to see the doctor”
“ was scared to talk. Now, I feel happy when I can say something in English and people understand me.”
– A CIWA learner (Pebbles in the Sand)
Hear it from the community
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Frequently asked Questions
Are CIWA Settlement Services free?
Yes. All CIWA Settlement Services are provided free of charge to eligible newcomers and community members.
Who can access Settlement Services?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.
Can I receive support in my own language?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.
What kind of help can I receive?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.









