FRN Program
Free immigrant & newcomer family supports in Calgary
Parenting in a new country is different. Free cross-cultural parenting classes, home visits in multiple languages, preschool programs, and youth groups — designed specifically for immigrant and refugee families. Delivered by CIWA.
What are immigrant family supports?
Raising children in a new country means navigating two worlds — the parenting culture you grew up with and the expectations of your new home. Calgary has a dedicated Family Resource Network zone specifically for immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families.
It's run by CIWA (Calgary Immigrant Women's Association), and the programming is built for families who are adjusting to life in Canada. That includes cross-cultural parenting classes that respect where you come from while helping you understand Canadian systems and expectations, home visitation in multiple languages, and the HIPPY preschool program that helps you prepare your child for school success.
CIWA also runs youth groups for immigrant teens and young people (ages 14+), providing a space to connect with peers who understand the experience of growing up between cultures.
Eligibility
Who it's for
Immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families
These programs are designed for families who have immigrated to Canada. Permanent residents, refugees, temporary residents, and undocumented families are all welcome. You don't need to be a Canadian citizen.
Families with children 0-18
Programs cover the full range — from prenatal and infant home visitation (with a focus on families with children under 1) to youth groups for teens. Different programs target different ages.
CIWA primarily serves immigrant women and their families. Family-oriented programs like parenting classes and HIPPY involve the whole family. Call and ask about specific programs.
What Happens
What to expect
Step 1
Call CIWA
Reach out at 403-263-4414. Tell them what language you're most comfortable in and what kind of support you're looking for. They serve families from many backgrounds and will connect you to the right program.
Step 2
Meet with a support worker
You'll connect with someone who understands the immigrant experience. They'll learn about your family, your needs, and help you find the right combination of programs — whether that's parenting classes, home visits, or youth groups.
Step 3
Cross-cultural parenting classes
Group classes that help you understand Canadian parenting expectations while honouring your own cultural values. The "Cross Cultural Parenting Post Conflict" program also specifically supports families including children with disabilities.
Step 4
Home visitation
A trained home visitor comes to your home regularly, in your preferred language when possible. They help with parenting skills, child development, and connecting you to community resources. Focus on families with children under 1, but available for ages 0-6.
Step 5
HIPPY & youth programs
If you have a preschooler, HIPPY gives you activities to do at home that prepare your child for school. If you have a teen 14+, CIWA's youth groups (Immigrant Girls, Boys and More) provide peer connection and support navigating life between cultures.
Access Points
Where to access immigrant family supports
CIWA delivers immigrant family programs city-wide through the New Canadian FRN zone. CIWA also provides home visitation through the Southwest zone. All immigrant families can access these programs regardless of where they live in Calgary.
CIWA — Calgary Immigrant Women's Association
HIPPY (Home Instructions for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), Cross Cultural Parenting Post Conflict, Immigrant Girls Boys and More (14+), Home Visitation for immigrant/new Canadian families.
📍 200-138 4th Ave SE, Calgary, T2G 4Z6
📞 403-263-4414
Hub: CIWA · ciwa-online.com
CIWA — Home Visitation (SW)
Home Visitation for immigrant, new Canadian, and Indigenous families with children 0-6. Available through the Southwest FRN zone as well.
📍 200-138 4th Ave SE, Calgary, T2G 4Z6
📞 403-263-4414
Hub: Trellis Society (SW zone) · ciwa-online.com
Common Questions
Immigrant family supports FAQ
Do I need to be a Canadian citizen?
No. FRN services are available to all Alberta residents regardless of immigration status. Permanent residents, refugees, temporary residents, and undocumented families can all access these programs.
Are services available in my language?
Yes. CIWA provides services in multiple languages, including home visitation and parenting classes. When you call, let them know your preferred language and they'll connect you with appropriate support.
What is HIPPY?
HIPPY (Home Instructions for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) is a free program where a trained home visitor helps you prepare your preschool-aged child for school success through activities you do together at home. Available in multiple languages.
Is this only for immigrant women?
CIWA primarily serves immigrant women and their families, but family-oriented programs like parenting classes and HIPPY involve the whole family. Call and ask about specific program eligibility.
Can I use these programs and my local FRN zone too?
Yes. You can access CIWA's New Canadian FRN programs and also use services through your geographic FRN zone. Many immigrant families benefit from both — cultural support through CIWA and neighbourhood-based programs through their local hub.
Related Programs
You might also need
Home visitation
General home visitation programs through your geographic FRN zone, in addition to CIWA's immigrant-specific home visitation.
Parenting classes & workshops
General parenting courses available through your local FRN zone — covering sleep, behaviour, routines, and more. Many are available in addition to CIWA's cross-cultural classes.
Rapid Access Counselling
A free 75-minute counselling session for individuals or families. Available through Catholic Family Service in the New Canadian zone and Kindred across the city.
Ready to connect?
Call CIWA at 403-263-4414 — they serve families in many languages and will help you find the right program. No referral needed.