Cape Breton Welcome Network
About the Cape Breton Welcome Network
Launched in 2020, built on research and community consultation led by the Cape Breton Local Immigration Partnership, its purpose is to help communities across Unama’ki – Cape Breton do what they do best: welcome others.
The Cape Breton Welcome Network Buddy Program
This pilot program connects Welcomers and Newcomers based on shared interests and demographics, with the goal of fostering friendships, build community connections, and a sense of belonging across Unama’ki – Cape Breton. Local volunteers offer a friendly face, a listening ear, and guidance – not as experts, but as good neighbours. Providing personalized support that helps newcomers settle into their new home.
How it Works:
- Complete the appropriate Buddy Program form linked below. You can sign up as either a “Welcomer” (local volunteer who has lived here for at least two years) or a “Newcomer” (recently arrived community member).
- The Welcome Network Coordinator will contact you and walk you through the required steps for completing a Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector check. All participants in the Buddy Program, both newcomers and volunteers, are required to provide proof of a Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check. The fee regularly associated with these checks is waived since it is for volunteer purposes. Newcomers with a valid study or work permit issued within the last two to three years are exempt from this.
- The Welcome Network Coordinator will try their best to match you with a “Buddy” from your community. Matches depend on the number of participants, shared interests, and demographics. While we aim to connect everyone, matching is not guaranteed, however we will absolutely try our best! Once matched, we encourage Buddies to commit to regular communication for at least three months. After that, you and your Buddy can decide how often you’d like to connect going forward. The Welcome Network Coordinator will also check in after one month to see how things are going and provide any needed support.
Participating in the Buddy Program:
Contact
For more information or questions about the Welcome Network, please contact Sumayya Mullassery, Welcome Network Coordinator at welcomenetwork@capebretonpartnership.com or 902-562-0122.
For additional resources and supports, please visit:
- For employment opportunities, visit the Cape Breton Job Board.
- For professional networking opportunities, visit The Cape Breton Connector Program.
- For a map of newcomer services and resources, visit the Newcomer Service Map.
- If you are looking for settlement support, visit Immigrant Settlement Services.
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Last Modified: September 4, 2025