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Innisfil, ON – The Town of Innisfil is excited to be part of the County of Simcoe’s first annual Week of Welcome, hosting a community fair on Monday, June 12 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library’s Lakeshore Branch (967 Innisfil Beach Road).

The Week of Welcome community fair will provide a platform for both newcomers to Innisfil and longstanding residents to explore resources that can help them thrive in their community. Attendees will be able to connect with Town staff and representatives from social service agencies on a number of local supports available in healthcare, employment, education, recreation, and more.

“This is a great opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the diversity that makes Innisfil such a vibrant and welcoming place to live,” says Mayor Lynn Dollin. “We are proud to partner with the County of Simcoe to showcase the many services and resources available to residents, and to highlight the contributions of immigrants to our community. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this event!"

One of the highlights of the day will be an Immigrant Entrepreneur Panel taking place from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Local panelists will share their experiences of living and working in Simcoe County, providing valuable insights and inspiration to those looking to start their own businesses or pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Moderated by RBC Relationship Manager Ehsan Chabok, panelists will include DMZ Innisfil Coordinator Morteza Gharaee from the Town of Innisfil, Olumakinde Bolarinwa and Titilayo Akinsanmi from 9Round Fitness, and Sarah Sekalala from Siika Foods.

Welcome Weeks are a Canada-wide initiative focused on celebrating communities that are striving to be more welcoming places for all, including immigrants. Events aim to recognize the people, places and values that ensure everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging in their local community.

“Simcoe County is now home to 82,000 immigrants, and to kick off Week of Welcome, we are proud to welcome approximately 40 new Canadians at the Citizenship Ceremony at the County Administration Centre this Saturday,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “Week of Welcome is a great opportunity to engage new residents and share information about our wide range of community services and supports throughout Simcoe County.”

The County’s Week of Welcome includes events on June 12 in Innisfil, June 13 in New Tecumseth, June 14 in Orillia, June 15 in Barrie, and June 16 in Collingwood.

Week of Welcome is a partnership between the County of Simcoe Local Immigration Partnership and member municipalities. Funding has been provided by Canada’s Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

All events are free to attend, and everyone is welcome. For information on Week of Welcome events happening regionally, visit simcoe.ca/wow.