Photo courtesy of: New Canadians Centre
The New Canadians Centre in Peterborough has completed a major renovation aimed at expanding the space available to support newcomers.
The organization celebrated the completion of the project Thursday after receiving a $166,500 Capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation last summer.
The funding allowed the Centre to renovate its existing space and create five additional client meeting rooms for settlement services and program delivery.
The project is one of the first major improvements completed since the New Canadians Centre purchased the former St. James United Church building in 2025.
Officials say the additional rooms provide more private, accessible and welcoming spaces for newcomers to meet with staff for settlement support, referrals and guidance.
Executive Director Jeeniraj (JJ) Thevasagayam called purchasing the building an important milestone for the organization and said the grant allowed NCC to make one of its first significant improvements to the property.
“This grant allowed us to complete one of our first major improvements to the space, creating more private and welcoming areas where newcomers can access support with dignity,” said Thevasagayam.
Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith said the investment will allow the organization to expand its capacity while providing safe and accessible spaces for individuals and families.
The New Canadians Centre has supported immigrants and refugees in Peterborough and surrounding communities for more than 40 years, providing settlement services, English-language learning support, employment and school programs and community connections.
