Our Programming

The Hamilton Newcomers Mental Wellness Association (HNMWA) works toward offering programs that supports newcomers' mental wellness as they begin their new life in Canada. Our services include mental health workshops in English and native languages, culturally sensitive counselling groups, and social gatherings that build friendships and ease the stress of transition. We also advocate for more trauma-informed services, ensuring that every newcomer is supported mentally.

Peer-Led Wellness Group

Small support groups offered in community spaces (libraries, churches, mosques, etc.) where newcomers can talk openly in their own language about stress, culture shock, and trauma.

Mind-Body Movement Groups

Somatic exercise classes (e.g. breathing, stretching, walking meditations) offered outdoors or in community halls to help newcomers regulate their nervous system.

 

Bonus: No English required—fully visual/demonstrative.

Story Telling for Healing Nights

Provide a safe stage for newcomers to share personal stories, poems, visual art forms, or songs around strength, resilience, and belonging.

 

Bonus: Builds community and counteracts isolation.

Art for Awareness


A quarterly event where newcomers (adults or youth)  are invited to draw or paint what “mental health” / “immigration” / “settlement” looks like to them. The artwork will be displayed publicly or online with stories behind it.

"HNMWA provided me with the support I needed to adjust to my new life in Hamilton. The counselling groups and social events helped me build connections and improve my mental wellness."

A grateful newcomer