The call for an evidence-based integrated funding and service delivery system for newcomers

As immigration continues to drive Canada's growth, the newcomer serving sector remains pivotal in facilitating newcomers' integration into communities. However, this sector grapples with ongoing challenges, exacerbated by the federal government's priority to increase immigration levels, thereby complicating the settlement landscape. This article examines the funding and service delivery difficulties organizations encounter. It underscores a system that fosters funding competition, impedes interorganizational collaboration, complicates program outcome reporting, and entails high administrative costs. Additionally, it addresses the specific challenges faced by newcomer children, youth, and families settling in Canada. The recommendations emphasize that no single agency can resolve the settlement sector crisis alone. Urgent actions include piloting integrated networks over integrated services and adopting a new Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada funding model that aligns with population and cultural needs. Moreover, eliminating silos is essential to establish a cohesive and efficient service delivery network committed to public outcomes and accountability.