Madison has significantly developed and expanded its Recovery during Immigration and Settlement (RISE) program since its inception in 2011, with support and funding from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the United Way Toronto and York Region, which specifically aids refugee claimants. Many clients of the RISE program come from war-torn countries and have experienced trauma and persecution.
RISE offers a variety of community-based, holistic services to address the mental health and settlement challenges faced by newcomers and refugees. These services include one-on-one case management, group orientation sessions that cover important topics such as navigating the Canadian healthcare system, housing, social assistance, and employment support services. Additionally, the program organizes social activities, like field trips to various Toronto landmarks and cultural attractions.
RISE works in partnership with organizations such as COSTI Immigrant Services, The Neighborhood Organization, the Working Women Community Centre, the Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture, and the Agincourt Community Services Association (ACSA), among others.
The RISE program is designed to support a positive settlement experience that fosters independence, health, recovery, and a sense of belonging in Canada. Both clients and staff members in the RISE program come from diverse backgrounds and share immigration experiences. Madison’s staff can provide services in English, Arabic, Farsi, Spanish, Pashto, and Dari.
The RISE program specifically assists newcomers living in Toronto who are experiencing significant stress during their settlement process. This stress can manifest as depression, anxiety, restlessness, changes in behavior, and a diminished sense of hope for the future.
Client Testimonials
The RISE program from Madison Community Services is very helpful and beneficial. I am able to discuss my needs and goals with my worker who helps me make the best and informed decision about my family’s lives in Canada. They help us to find answers for our questions as newcomers. We wish them all the best and thank you so much.
Madison Community Services – RISE program has helped me in many different aspects of my life. My main issue was housing, as my landlord was attempting to evict me illegally. My housing instability and the stress that came with it affected my mental health as well my emotional wellbeing negatively. My United Way funded Madison-RISE Case Manager helped me by accompanying me to the landlord and tenant board court hearing, providing me with emotional support, translation and interpretation services. My Case Manager has gone above and beyond her call of duty to advocate on my behalf as well keep me informed of my rights in Canada. Presently, I have won my LTB court case and I have moved into a new home. I have obtained new housing and have a better understanding of my rights in Canada. I am very grateful to Madison and my Case Manager. I have no words to express how empowered and hopeful I feel about my future.
