Photo: Jennifer Rajasekar, Manager, of the Worker Support Services office in Simcoe, Ontario
For nearly 40 years, TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization has been committed to building more equitable communities by providing responsive, culturally relevant, and wraparound support services. As a multi-service nonprofit, TNO strengthens the quality of life for newcomers, refugees, temporary foreign workers, and other equity-deserving populations through a community development lens.
A Trusted Leader in Migrant Worker Support
TNO began serving migrant workers and caregivers in 2006, providing essential support to address their unique needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, TNO was recognized as one of Ontario’s anchor organizations supporting temporary foreign workers by ensuring access to critical resources, health services, and advocacy.
Since launching the Worker Support Services (WSS) program in 2022 with support from the Government of Canada, TNO has played a key role in advancing the rights and well-being of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) across Ontario. Delivered in collaboration with 10 sub-agreement holder organizations and numerous community partners, WSS ensures that workers are informed, connected, and supported—no matter where they are in the province. From Niagara to Ottawa, Leamington to Thunder Bay, and across both urban and rural settings, the WSS program brings essential services directly to workers—offering everything from legal clinics and health workshops to cultural events, peer support, and emergency assistance.
A Deep Impact in Norfolk County
Since May 2021, TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization, in close partnership with sub-agreement holders, particularly The Huron Farmworkers Ministry, has made a significant and measurable impact in Norfolk County. Since October 2022, TNO has collectively supported approximately 9,213 unique temporary foreign workers, facilitating over 22,276 interactions through workshops, community events, one-on-one case management, and emergency support services. The outreach reflects a deep commitment to building trust with migrant workers by providing timely, culturally competent services and ensuring that they have access to the information, resources, and protections needed to live and work safely in Ontario.
Strengthening Connections with Employers and the Community
Beyond direct worker support, TNO actively collaborates with employers and farm owners to foster safe and supportive working environments. These partnerships bridge the gap between workers and local communities, strengthening trust and ensuring that workers feel welcome and valued.
By bringing together urban and rural newcomer communities, TNO creates intergenerational support networks that connect Syrian and Ukrainian refugees, Afghan newcomers, and other displaced populations with opportunities to engage in informal English conversation classes, cultural exchanges, and community-building initiatives.
Mentorship, Volunteering, and Capacity Building
The work extends to engaging the broader community in volunteering with newcomers, creating meaningful opportunities for local residents, students, and professionals to support and learn from migrant workers and refugees. Through mentorship programs and hands-on volunteering, individuals gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of newcomers while building a more inclusive community.
TNO also supports placement students, offering them mentorship and real-world experience to develop their skills in social services, legal aid, and community engagement. Through hands-on learning, students gain practical insights into working with migrant and newcomer populations, strengthening their capacity to serve diverse communities in their respective fields.
The consistent and growing presence of the program in Norfolk County continues to strengthen local support networks, engage the community in meaningful volunteerism, build bridges between employers and workers, and foster a more inclusive and informed society for all.
Employment and Trade Development Programs
TNO is committed to providing skills training and employment support to help individuals build sustainable livelihoods. The employment and trade development initiatives include:
- Gateway Bike Hub – A community-based initiative providing bicycle repair, cycling education, and employment training for newcomers and marginalized individuals.
- TNO Sew TO Collective – A sewing training and employment program that empowers immigrant women and low-income individuals to develop their skills for economic independence.
- TNO Trades Connect – A workforce development program connecting individuals with skilled trade opportunities and training resources.
- TNO Employment Services – A comprehensive employment support program offering job search assistance, resume help, interview preparation, and career development workshops.
Program-Wide Reach and Outcomes
- 46,047 unique temporary foreign workers served
- 100,913 total interactions including workshops, one-on-one supports, and social gatherings
- 702 emergency cases supported with shelter, food, transportation, and case management
- 1,629 educational workshops and social events hosted province-wide
Building Toward a Fairer Future
TNO remains deeply committed to ensuring migrant and temporary foreign workers are respected, supported, and protected—not only as essential contributors to our economy but as full members of our communities. TNO continues building stronger partnerships and expanding its reach so that every worker in Ontario feels safe, valued, and connected.
By integrating employment, skills training, and economic empowerment initiatives, TNO ensures that migrant workers and marginalized communities have access to sustainable job opportunities and the support they need to succeed.
Together, we are building a future where everyone—regardless of status or background—can thrive.
Contributed article
Learn about other supports for newcomers at https://new2norfolk.ca.