b'Rooted in Community: A Six YearJourney of Growing in CanadaWhen families first arrive in Canada, they carry with them hope, determination, anddreams of a peaceful and prosperous life for themselves and future generations. Yet theimmigrant journey is rarely easy. Newcomers often face challenges and barriers relatedto language, culture, system navigation, and experiences of prejudice and discrimination.In 2019, when a family of eight walked into Beacock Library, they immediately connectedwith LUSO Community Services Library Settlement Program (LSP). From that firstmeeting, the LSP Team began providing referrals and support, connecting the family toSettlement Workers in Schools to assist their children, as well as LUSOs SettlementCounsellors for personalized, one-on-one support. Step by step, LUSO staff walkedalongside the familyhelping them access essential services such as language learning,health care, financial and basic needs support, and public transit. With this support, thefamily gained the confidence and tools they needed to navigate their new community,their new city, and their new home.Fast forward six years to February 2025, when the family achieved a profound milestone:they officially became Canadian citizens. True to their journey, LUSO Settlement Staffwere by their side, just as they had been since the very beginning, when the family tooktheir Oath of Citizenship. The ceremony was filled with pride, joy, and deep gratitude.This familys story reflects the heart of settlement workbuilding pathways, fosteringresilience, and creating a true sense of belonging that transforms newcomers intoneighbours.LUSO Community Services 302024-25 Impact Report'