Calgary Newcomer Services Expand as Immigration Drives Record Population Growth
The city welcomes 45,000 new permanent residents in 2022, straining settlement services.
Calgary’s settlement agencies are scrambling to expand services as the city absorbs a record 45,000 new permanent residents in 2022, driven by federal immigration targets and Alberta’s strong job market.
Overwhelming Demand
The Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA), one of the city’s largest settlement service providers, says its caseload has increased 40% since January. Wait times for language classes, credential recognition assistance, and employment counselling have all grown substantially.
“We are thrilled that Calgary is attracting so many newcomers, but our capacity has not kept pace,” said CIWA CEO Ania Baran. “These families need support from day one, and right now, we’re stretched incredibly thin.”
Housing the Challenge
Finding affordable housing remains the top barrier for new arrivals. Many newcomers report spending weeks in temporary accommodations while searching for rental units in a market with a vacancy rate below 3%. Non-market housing directories like CalgaryFinder.com have become essential tools for newcomers navigating the tight rental market.
Community Connections
Despite the challenges, Calgary’s diverse community organizations have rallied to welcome newcomers. The Islamic Family and Social Services Association, the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, and numerous ethnocultural groups have expanded volunteer mentor programs.
“Calgary has always been a welcoming city. We just need the resources to match our ambitions,” said Baran.
The federal government has announced an additional $15 million in settlement funding for Alberta, though agencies say it falls short of what is needed to serve current volumes.
