What is Host?
Host is a one-on-one befriending program which facilitates friendships with individuals, newcomers, and volunteers from the host community. Host aims to link newcomer youth to volunteers in the community to assist with their transition to Canada and Canadian lifestyle.
The Canadian volunteer - your "Host" - is someone who lives in your neighbourhood and can assist you in finding your way around Toronto. Host relationships are based on educating participants on the customs, norms and traditions of Canada. However, within this process, the Hosts themselves will gain an understanding of the experiences and lifestyles of the newcomers' countries.

The Host program unifies people from various nations, bridging differences and strengthening the community. The following is a testimony from a former Host participant, originally from the Philippines:
"The Host program has helped us form networks and friendships that have enabled us to adjust and settle faster into the Canadian way of life. This strengthened our optimism that in due time, we'll be in a place where we ought to be".

Host Match: Matches are based on gender, age, and location in the wider Jane and Finch area. The host match will meet for around two (2) hours a week to provide the following:
- English Conversation Circles
- Various activity sessions at San Romanoway
- Tours of the Greater Toronto Area
- Visits to Historical Toronto
- The Library and community centres
- Shopping trips
- Using public transportation (TTC)
-Attend valuable workshops to gain important information and skills relevant to living in Canada.

How do I enroll in the Host program as a newcomer?
Host program participants must:
- Contact the Host intake office
- Fill out and submit a Host program application form
- Attend the Host orientation session
* Newcomers must have lived in Canada three (3) years or less.

How do I become HOST Volunteer?
-Contact the Host intake office
-Fill out the Volunteer application form
-Attend a Volunteer orientation session
*The volunteer applicant must pass a Criminal Record Check which will be provided and paid for by the Host Program.
* Volunteers must have lived in Toronto for at least three (3) years to apply.

Host Participants and Volunteer Mentors will attend an orientation session to learn about the Host Program and meet other newcomers and volunteers!

Training sessions are not mandatory but are highly recommended. After you have completed 30 volunteer hours, you will receive a certificate of appreciation!

Please contact San Romanoway Revitalization Association Youth Host Program,
By phone: (416) 739-9910 ext. 221
By email: sbower@srra.ca