Reception House Waterloo Region has long been a compassionate first stop for government-assisted refugees arriving in the Waterloo region area. From the moment families step through their doors, they are met with practical support, gentle guidance, and a commitment to restoring a sense of safety and belonging. As families navigate their first weeks in Canada, Reception House offers temporary housing, orientation, and wrap-around settlement services, all grounded in dignity and care.
Among those who face the greatest challenges in this transition are children and youth. After leaving behind familiar places, friends, and routines, young people often carry stress and trauma that can be difficult to name, especially when learning a new language. While living in temporary accommodation, these children do not yet have access to school. This isolation, combined with the lingering emotional weight of their journey, can affect their mental well-being and sense of stability.
To help bridge this gap, Reception House introduced The Pathways to Peace: Art and Mental Wellness for Refugee Youth project, supported in part by a Kindred Credit Union Charitable Fund grant and offered in partnership with Camino Wellbeing and Mental Health. This creative initiative brought art therapy directly into Reception House’s temporary accommodation spaces, offering a safe and inviting way for children to express themselves, connect with others, and begin healing.
“Art has long been recognized as a powerful tool for emotional expression, particularly for those who may struggle to communicate their feelings verbally,” comments Emma Jennings, Senior Manager of Resettlement and Integration for Reception House. Research shows that art therapy can ease trauma-related symptoms such as depression and anxiety among refugee youth, helping them regulate emotions and navigate behavioural and relational challenges as they adapt to a new cultural environment. “We are offering them the opportunity to express themselves freely, without judgement,” adds Emma.
These sessions often sparked early English-language learning as children described their creations, shared ideas, and built confidence through positive interaction. Perhaps most importantly, art brought the children together. “Group activities help break through feelings of isolation by offering shared experiences and opportunities to form new friendships,” explains Daria Danylova, Fundraising and Communication Coordinator at Reception House. These early connections fostered trust, belonging, and resilience which are key ingredients for healthy settlement and long-term well-being.
By investing in Pathways to Peace, Kindred is investing in the flourishing of refugee children. This program embodies a shared commitment to compassion, and peaceful, just, and prosperous communities. Reception House’s thoughtful approach ensures that every child is not only welcomed but supported in meaningful ways as they take their first steps toward building a new life.