Our mission is to empower Somali youth, women, and families through education, skills development, and community support.
No young person should be held back from reaching their potential. PCHD works to remove barriers for Somali youth and families by expanding access to learning opportunities, essential support services, and safe, inclusive community spaces.
PROGRAM & SERVICES
PCHD offers comprehensive programs, services, and community supports that strengthen settlement, learning and skills, employment readiness, and overall well-being. Using a holistic, culturally responsive approach and strong partnerships, PCHD works to reduce barriers and make services accessible and inclusive for all.
Settlement Services Program
PCHD’s Settlement Services & Referrals support newcomers in adjusting to life in Canada through one-on-one settlement counselling, information and orientation, interpretation and translation support, referrals to community and employment resources, and guidance on housing, school, healthcare, rights and responsibilities, and available benefits, as well as mental health navigation with culturally responsive counselling and wellness referrals; limited general form-filling support may be available, but assistance is not provided for medical, legal, insurance, immigration sponsorship, or personal letter writing.
Adult Literacy & Skills Program
Employment Services Program
Community Support Program
PCHD’s Adult Literacy and Skills Development program helps adults strengthen essential literacy, numeracy, digital, and practical life skills through culturally informed learning supports, individualized guidance, and applied training. The program builds confidence and independence for daily life, employment readiness, and active community participation, while supporting learners to set goals, improve communication and problem solving, and practice real world tasks such as using technology, completing everyday documents, and managing basic information.
PCHD’s Employment Services Program supports individuals to explore employment and training opportunities and build a realistic pathway to meaningful work based on their strengths, abilities, and interests, while helping them overcome barriers through workplace readiness support, résumé and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, job search coaching, employment assessments and career planning, group workshops and information sessions, skills training and referrals to upgrading or certifications, links to employers and labour market opportunities, supported employment and mentorship, volunteer and community engagement options to build experience, and practical budgeting and financial basics to strengthen long-term employment stability; to access the program, clients complete an intake/registration with PCHD and can contact the team for more information.
PCHD’s Community Support Programs bring together child and youth development services and a Community Resource Hub to deliver coordinated, wraparound support that helps individuals and families thrive. Using a community centre approach, we offer learning supports such as tutoring, homework help, and early literacy, along with skill building in life skills, financial basics, and leadership development. Our social, cultural, and recreational activities including sports, arts, and group programs create safe spaces where people build confidence, strengthen healthy relationships, and develop a strong sense of belonging. We also promote Community Engagement and Social Inclusion through cultural activities, volunteer opportunities, community events, and leadership programs that unite communities and deepen connection.