Migrant integration—the process by which newcomers are supported to become active and contributing members of the host society, encompasses social, economic, and cultural aspects. Effective integration leads to stronger, more inclusive communities.

 

Racialized immigrants and refugees face significant barriers to integration, with about a third reporting challenges accessing settlement services. ACRES leads interdisciplinary projects, in collaboration with municipalities and community-based organizations, that investigate barriers and facilitators of successful integration and well-being.

 

Our research explores the role of structural factors, including:

         - employment barriers,

         - housing instability, and

         - limited access to culturally-informed services.

 

Using participatory methodologies, we co-develop solutions with communities to promote health equity, socioeconomic, and cultural integration of immigrants and refugees.

 

Employing participatory methodologies and an intersectional lens, our work generates actionable insights to dismantle systemic barriers and support healthy and sustainable communities.