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FAQs
General Information About Haven
Haven is a registered Canadian charity that connects refugees and newcomers fleeing conflict with Canadians who can help. More refugees are arriving in Canada than ever before, and we believe that Canadians—both individuals and companies—want to help. By making it easier to know who needs support and how to offer it, we aim to make Canada the best country in the world at welcoming refugees.
Haven makes helping simple. We match refugees with Canadians who can support in simple, personal ways. This includes helping refugees practice English or French through conversations, offering refugees job advice and support through networking, and welcoming refugees to their new local community. Whether you have 30 minutes to spare or want to build a long-term connection, Haven makes it easy to get involved in a way that works for you.
Yes! We are a registered Canadian charity based in Toronto, but we operate nationwide. Registration: 758177547 RR0001
After signing up, you’ll create a profile and share what kind of help you can offer (or what kind of support you need). From there, you can browse profiles and connect with someone who’s a good fit. Once you’ve both agreed to the match, you can start chatting right away!
No. Right now, we’re focused on supporting refugees and newcomers fleeing conflict that are located in Canada.
Nope—Haven is completely free for refugees and supporters.
The only exception is in the Haven Language Program for refugees, where classes with professional ESL teachers have a small participation fee. This is meant to ensure that students attend. This participation fee is an 80 to 90% discount of the regular price of a language lesson in Canada.
We help refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers fleeing conflict who are now in Canada. We are unable to help newcomers to Canada who are not here because of conflict. We are also unable to help refugees who have not yet arrived in Canada.
Our matches happen in English or French, but refugees and supporters come from all backgrounds.
We’re all about one-on-one, flexible connections. Haven isn’t a big commitment—think of it as a simple way to make a meaningful impact, even if all you can do is have a 30-minute conversation with someone looking for language practice. By making it easier to help, we hope to get more Canadians involved in helping refugees.
Easy! Just head to our website at findhaven.org and create an account. You’ll be able to set your preferences and match with a refugee or supporter.
Just an email address and a few details about yourself. We’ll also verify your identity for safety. You can verify your ID online instantly or schedule a verification video call with a Haven employee.
Yes! While Haven focuses on one-on-one connections, we also work with companies, and organizations that want to support refugees. Please email us at [email protected] if you’re interested.
No, we don’t offer legal services.
No, we are not funded or affiliated with the Canadian government. We are a registered charity, and we regularly collaborate with community groups and local organizations to provide better support.
You can reach out anytime through our website or email us at [email protected].
Supporter FAQs
Anyone in Canada over 18 years old who wants to help! No special experience is needed—just a willingness to connect with refugees.
Nope! If you can have a conversation, review a resume, introduce someone to your network, or welcome someone to your city, you’re already qualified.
As much or as little as you want! We recommend starting with a 30-minute conversation and seeing where it goes from there.
Language: Conversation practice in English or French
Networking: Advice, resume reviews and connecting to your network
Community: Welcome refugees to your city or neighbourhood
It’s up to you! Most connections happen virtually, but if you and your match agree, you can meet in person. We recommend meeting in public places like cafes and following basic safety protocol, like when you meet any other stranger.
Yes! You can support multiple refugees if you have the time.
Reach out to Haven anytime—we’re here to help. You can contact us directly in the platform by clicking “Contact Haven” or by emailing us at [email protected]
Even 30 minutes can make a real impact! If you're busy, start with a one-time conversation—it’s a simple way to help. You can also support a refugee’s language learning by making a donation. Learn more at www.findhaven.org/donate.
Once you sign up as a supporter, we provide a guide on how to have meaningful conversations, and offer practical help. You’ll also have access to conversation prompts, and a support team that can answer any questions along the way.
Signing up is easy! Visit findhaven.org and create an account. You’ll be asked to share a little about yourself and verify your identity for safety. Once your profile is set up, you can browse and connect with refugees who are looking for support.
That’s okay! Most connections happen in English or French, and even if a refugee is still learning, your support can help them improve. You don’t need to be a language teacher—just being patient and encouraging can make a big difference.
On Haven, you can filter by nationality to connect with someone from a specific background. Many refugees share their personal stories and origins, helping you find a meaningful match.
Refugee FAQs
Right now, Haven is only available to refugees and newcomers fleeing conflict who are already in Canada. Our platform is designed to help with settling in—practicing English or French, building a network, and navigating life in a new country. If you're planning to move to Canada soon, you can sign up once you arrive!
Yes! Many supporters review resumes, offer job search advice, and introduce refugees to their networks. They’re not recruiters, but they can help open doors.
Through Haven, you can connect with verified Canadian volunteers who can support you in different ways, including:
Practicing English or French – Improve your language skills with friendly conversations and structured practice with volunteers.
Haven Language Program - If you are interested in actual classes with professional teachers, you can sign-up for our full program.
Resume and job search help – Get guidance on writing a strong resume, preparing for interviews, and finding job opportunities.
Networking and introductions – Meet professionals in your field who can help you build connections in Canada.
Welcoming you to your new community – Whether you need advice, encouragement, or just someone to connect with, supporters are here to help you feel at home in Canada.
No, most connections happen online through messaging or video calls. However, if both you and your supporter are comfortable, you can choose to meet in person!
Unfortunately, not at this time. Haven is for refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers fleeing conflict. If you’re not sure if you qualify, please email us at [email protected].
Yes! Many supporters are happy to help refugees with any language level. Whether you’re just starting or want to practice more advanced conversations, you can find someone who matches your needs. If you need structured lessons, you can also join the Haven Language Program, which offers classes with professional ESL teachers at a low cost.
You can sign up at findhaven.org. Create an account, share a little about yourself, and verify your identity. Once your profile is ready, you can start connecting with supporters who can help you.
Yes, Haven is completely free for refugees. The only exception is the Haven Language Program, where classes with professional teachers have a small participation fee to ensure commitment.
Yes! You can browse supporter profiles and choose who you’d like to connect with. Matches are based on mutual interest, so both you and your supporter must agree before a connection is made.