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Newcomer Assistance Program

Supporting Safe Student Settlement in Sault Ste. Marie

Happy international students or SSM cityscape
“Guiding You Home in a New Land”

Welcome to Sault Ste. Marie!

Congratulations on beginning your journey in Canada!

The Sault Malayalee Association (SMA) is here to ensure your transition is safe, smooth, and full of support.

We are a non-profit community of Keralites living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Our Newcomer Assistance Program is designed to help you settle into a secure home, access essential services, and connect with our local community — all with trust, transparency, and care.

What We Offer

🏠

Safe Housing

Help you find pre-verified, clean, and affordable accommodation.

💳

Bank & SIM Setup

Assistance with opening a bank account and setting up a mobile phone plan.

🏙️

City Orientation

Introduction to bus routes, grocery stores, public offices, and city navigation.

📞

Emergency Support

Dedicated volunteers and student coordinators for guidance and urgent support.

👥

Parent Updates

Optional check-ins and regular updates to families back home for peace of mind.

Your First Steps Upon Arrival

1

Contact Us Before Departure

Share your travel details and housing status so we can coordinate support.

2

Confirm Accommodation Needs

Let us know if you’ve arranged housing or require assistance.

3

Join Orientation Session

Attend our newcomer welcome session for safety tips and local guidance.

4

Stay Connected

Join our WhatsApp or Telegram group for instant updates and community help.

We work with trusted partners and have structured teams to support newcomers

✅ Committees & Coordinators

  • Newcomer Settlement Committee
    Housing, orientation, SIM/bank support
  • Placement Assistance Committee
    Job support and resume help
  • Student Coordinators
    Representatives from Sault College and Algoma University

✅ Partner Organizations

  • Sault College & Algoma University
    Academic integration and orientation
  • City of Sault Ste. Marie & LIP
    Community programs
  • Sault Ste. Marie Police Service
    Legal awareness and student safety
  • SSM Arts and Culture Forum
    Community and cultural engagement

🤔 Why Choose SMA?

🧭

Community-Driven

Managed by volunteers who were once newcomers like you.

🛡️

Safe and Transparent

We avoid third-party agents or unethical housing.

💬

Language Support

Malayalam and English communication.

🌎

Recognized by NORKA Roots

Kerala government agency for Non-Resident Keralites.

❓ Questions or Need Help?

We’re happy to connect with students, agencies, and parents.

📧

Email Us

saultmalayalee@gmail.com

📞

Call Us

+1 249-525-5184

🔷 Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Register now to get access to newcomer support, resources, and guidance.

Register for Newcomer Assistance