NEW TO CANADA UPCOMING EVENTS:

About Saskatoon

Saskatoon is named after a berry

Saskatoon takes it’s name from the Saskatoon berry – a sweet, violet coloured fruit that was of prime importance to Indigenous people and early settlers. This berry, referred to by the Cree word mis-sask-quah-toomina grows abundantly and naturally in the area.

City of BriDGES

Saskatoon is intersected by the South Saskatchewan River and is known as “the city of bridges” with its many bridges connecting the east and west sides of the city. There are numerous public parks and paths along both   sides of the wide river.

Saskatoon is the largest city in Saskatchewan

It continues to grow with a current population of 342 000. Saskatoon is known as Canada’s breadbasket and is a major exporter of wheat, canola, and other grains in the world. It is also a leader in mining and manufacturing. The city is home to the world’s largest potash mine, which plays a vital role in supplying the world’s demand for fertilizer. Find out more about Saskatoon’s history and culture here: What is Saskatoon known for? – New Canadian Life

WINTER IN SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN

WHat is Winter like in Canada?

In a large country like Canada the winter weather conditions differ from one coast to another. Winter on the Pacific west coast is milder and rainy in comparison to the Atlantic. As you go further north the more arctic-like the conditions become. Not to worry though, as long as you have your wardrobe, home, and car ready for winter, you’ll be alright.

Dressing for Winter in SASKATOON

Cute winter wear may look nice, BUT it won’t keep you warm.  See the video for some great tips on how to stay warm!

FAMILY GUIDE

Parenting Tips

School, health, safety, homework click here

Disciplining Children

The idea of child protection may be foreign to newcomers who may use corporal punishment (spanking, hitting) to discipline children. In Canada spanking is allowed however there are specific rules surrounding it.  If your child goes to school with any suspicious marks the Children’s Aid Society may make a house visit to determine if they consider it abuse.  Click here for an explanation about how far is too far.  

Saskatoon School & Neighbourhood Guide

Saskatoon Public School Division

Newcomer Student Center: Newcomer Student Centre - Saskatoon Public Schools (spsd.sk.ca)

Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools:

New to Canada: Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (gscs.ca)

Saskatoon Christian School: 

Saskatoon Christian School - Saskatoon, SK

Neighbourhood Map:

 https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1XPSWYy840PVcbbDTGTjnSLWXaZTkpHw&usp=sharing

Where to Shop

(for clothes, international food, baby/kid, etc)

Affordable Used Household & Clothing items

•  Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji are online markets for individuals to sell or buy all sorts of things from home and yard supplies to vehicles and property. If you do purchase something from Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji, it is recommended that you meet the seller in a public place and inspect the product before paying.

• Consignment and Thrift Stores:

1. Value Village: www.ValueVillage.ca

2. Salvation Army: The Salvation Army Saskatoon

3. Once Upon A Child: Buy & Sell Kids' Clothing, Shoes, Toys, Furniture, and Baby Gear | Once Upon A Child Saskatoon East

4. Reclaim Maternity & Kids: www.ReclaimSaskatoon.ca

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Applying, Working, Travelling and Changing Schools and More – click here for information

Banking, Taxes and Finances

Whether you've moved here for work, as a refugee or to study, you will need to set up a bank account here in Canada.

There are many different banks and credit unions in Canada. The Top 5 Banks in Canada all have programs and products specifically designed for those who are new to Canada. Take a look at the links below and make a free appointment with a banking advisor to see which bank might be a good fit for you.

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

• RBC Newcomers: Permanent Residents and Foreign Workers in Canada - RBC (rbcroyalbank.com)

• RBC International Students: International Students in Canada - RBC (rbcroyalbank.com)

Toronto Dominion (TD) Bank: Banking Products for Newcomers to Canada | TD Canada Trust

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC): Start Your Banking Journey as a Newcomer to Canada | CIBC

Scotiabank: Financial planning and advice for newcomers to Canada | Scotiabank Canada

Bank of Montreal (BMO): New to Canada: Banking & Bank Accounts for Newcomers - BMO

FINDING a JOB

There are many organizations within Saskatoon that can help you as you look for a job. These organizations can help you with complete your resume, improve your English, provide training or give advice on how to upgrade your skills to fit within Canada's job market. 

• Global Gathering Place: Support for Refugees & Immigrants in Saskatoon - Global Gathering Place

• Open Door Society: www.sods.sk.ca

• Saskatchewan Intercultural Association: saskintercultural.org

• International Women of Saskatoon: iwssaskatoon.org

HEALTHCARE IN CANADA | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What do I do in case of a medical emergency?

Call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.

What is the difference between the emergency room and a walk-in clinic?

The primary differences between an emergency room (ER) and a walk-in clinic (also known as an urgent care clinic) revolve around the level of care provided and the types of medical issues they are equipped to handle. Here are some key distinctions:

The severity of Conditions:

• Emergency Room: ERs are designed to handle life-threatening or severe medical emergencies. They are equipped to provide care for conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, major injuries, severe bleeding, respiratory distress, and other critical situations.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics are for non-life-threatening, minor to moderate medical issues. They can address conditions like flu symptoms, minor injuries, ear infections, minor cuts, and other non-urgent health concerns.

Cost:

• Emergency Room: Visiting the ER is generally more expensive than going to a walk-in clinic. ER care tends to involve higher costs, including facility fees, which can be substantial.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics are often more cost-effective for less severe medical issues. They are a good option for those without serious emergencies and who want to avoid the high costs of an ER visit.

Wait Times:

• Emergency Room: ERs may have longer wait times, especially if there are many patients with critical or life-threatening conditions. Patients with less urgent issues may have to wait a significant amount of time.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics typically have shorter wait times. Patients can often receive care more quickly, as these clinics are designed to handle less severe conditions.

Services Available:

• Emergency Room: ERs have advanced medical equipment, specialized staff, and the capacity to perform complex diagnostic tests and surgical procedures.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics offer basic medical services like minor wound care, vaccinations, X-rays, and basic laboratory tests. They do not have the resources to handle severe trauma or major surgeries.

Appointments:

• Emergency Room: ER visits are generally not by appointment. Patients go to the ER as needed, regardless of the time or day.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics are designed for unscheduled, walk-in visits. Some may allow patients to make appointments for convenience, but it's not always necessary.

Accessibility:

• Emergency Room: ERs are typically open 24/7 and are accessible for any medical emergency at any time.

• Walk-In Clinic: Walk-in clinics have specific operating hours and may not be open during the late hours of the night or on holidays. They are meant for non-emergent care.

In summary, the choice between an emergency room and a walk-in clinic depends on the severity of your medical condition. If you have a life-threatening or serious emergency, you should go to the ER. For less severe issues, a walk-in clinic can often provide quicker and more cost-effective care. It's important to assess your symptoms and choose the appropriate facility to ensure you receive the right level of care. http://saskatoonhealthregion.ca/locations_services/locations/pages/walk-in-clinics.aspx

You can find your local walk-in clinic here: Find walk-in medical clinics near me in Saskatoon, SK - Medimap 

Where and how can I find a family doctor? 

The first step is to locate a family practice near you, call them, and ask if they are taking new patients. Even if they are not accepting, they may direct you to a practice that is. 

Have questions? ASK HERE

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