Resource Toolkit for Migrants
This Resource Toolkit offers materials to help migrant workers understand their rights and access services and support.
Given how difficult it can be for undocumented workers to access services, these resources are especially relevant for those with precarious immigration status.
Most resources are specific to Edmonton. We will attempt to keep these resources up to date and add new resources over time.
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We know how important it is to find a decent and safe space for you and your family. While we cannot guarantee you a home to rent, at AWARE we have worked to build relationships with homeowners.
Please contact AWARE for more information about this service.
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In Alberta, employment standards legislation sets out minimum requirements for employers and employees. These resources are intended to help workers understand what their employers are legally required to provide or protect.
Employment Standards
Alberta Employment Standards website: Includes guides, resources, and a way to file complaints (including anonymously).
Download a poster summarizing the employment rights of international students (PDF)
AWARE also offers in-person and online presentations to help workers understand their rights in the workplace. Contact AWARE for more information.
Union Solidarity
The labor movement has a crucial role to play in building solidarity among all workers, regardless of their immigration status. Some unions have begun to develop resources to support this work. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has published Temporary foreign workers in our union: A guide to solidarity and action (PDF)
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Navigating the legal system of a new country can be challenging. Here, we introduce you to legal service providers with experience in matters that are especially relevant to members of the migrant community. With their deep knowledge and commitment, they are ready to guide you and provide you with the legal support you may require. AWARE can help people with referrals as needed.
Migrants Know Your Rights: Facing Immigration Arrest, Detention, and Deportation is an informational guide (not legal advice) on the rights of migrants when interacting with immigration detention and deportation systems, including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). or the police.
My Refugee Claim is a comprehensive resource for people making refugee claims in Canada. It offers three resources in 13 languages – a comprehensive website, a printable Orientation Booklet, and online webinars called Ready Tours.
These resources are designed to help folks get informed, connected, and prepared throughout their refugee claim journey. All materials were written with and vetted by people with lived experience and by refugee lawyers, and combine the decades of experience from our work living and working with refugee claimants.
Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office (TFWAO)
A service provided by the Government of Alberta. Call or email to make an appointment. Alternatively, you can schedule a call with the help of RWAC (Rights and Welfare Action Committee). The intake worker will take your information, your case will be referred to a case manager, and you will then be contacted by phone or email.
Action Coalition on Human Trafficking Alberta (ACT Alberta)
ACT Alberta is mandated to support undocumented people who have been victims of labor or sex trafficking. Services include help with legal immigration documents, food, housing, transportation, and connections to relevant authorities regarding labor standards and occupational health. Call the main line (780-474-1104) or leave a voicemail.
Edmonton Community Legal Center
Located in downtown Edmonton. Offers services to immigrants without immigration status. Immigrants can communicate with them directly or be referred. An intake worker or immigration paralegal will collect information and documents from the client. If you meet all eligibility requirements, you will be scheduled for an appointment and have the opportunity to speak with an attorney in person (depending on availability) or over the phone. Once the clinic visit has been reviewed by staff attorneys, clients will be sent a letter with all of the clinic's advice and any additional information that staff attorneys feel would help the client move forward with their case.
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There are several food banks and organizations in Edmonton that work to help people access healthy foods.
11508 120 St. NW, Edmonton AB, 780-425-4190
Identification required.
Food baskets are distributed curbside every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to 1 p.m. m. at 4954 Roper Road NW Edmonton, AB. Volunteer-run charity. No questions asked, no identification required.
7208- 101 Avenue Edmonton, AB
Offers food baskets. Communicate in advance. Some identification may be required, but may include an expired ID, library card, letter/invoice, etc. You will not be asked for your immigration status.
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Migration is not just a physical journey — it is deeply emotional. Adapting to a new environment and facing the challenges of migration can affect our mental and emotional well-being.
Mental health is our ability to cope with life’s challenges, form meaningful relationships, and contribute to our communities. Many people without immigration status experience isolation, a sense of not belonging, or feelings of shame. At AWARE, our mission is to transform that isolation into connection — by building inclusive communities and naming the power imbalances and exploitation that shape global migration, especially from poorer to wealthier countries.
We believe mental health support goes beyond clinical care. It also includes community, joy, nature, and creative expression. Here’s how we support well-being:
Global Cafés
Monthly gatherings where migrants can connect, share experiences, and build community. To join, email us.
Reconnect to Joy
We encourage individuals and families to rediscover the passions they loved in their home countries — painting, storytelling, cooking, dancing, sports. These creative outlets, even when adapted to life in Alberta, are powerful tools for healing and joy.
Connect with Nature
Nature is a free and accessible healer. A short walk by the river, sitting under a tree, or laying on the grass (or snow!), can ease stress and help us feel more grounded.
Counselling Supports
We’ve partnered with mental health organizations that provide free or low-cost therapy — including for undocumented individuals and families. These services are confidential, compassionate, and do not require immigration documents. See the list of providers below:
Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative (MCHB)
Offers free mental health therapy services for individuals from immigrant and refugee backgrounds, including those who are undocumented. Services are available for as long as there is therapeutic benefit. Support is offered through individual, couples, and family counselling, as well as play therapy. Sessions are available online or in person at the Edmonton office (9538 107 Avenue). In Edmonton, services are open to both individuals and families. Across Alberta, MCHB also operates a provincial mental health network that serves immigrant families with children aged 18 and under. Basic personal information is required, but no immigration documents are needed. Contact MCHB for more information.
Free mental health therapy services for undocumented people and their families. Sessions are held online or in Edmonton (multiple locations).
Services are by appointment only, and there is a waiting list. Some personal information is required, but immigration documents are not. For children, parental consent is required. Contact Newcomer Centre for more information.
Offers counseling services using a sliding scale based on monthly income, but does not turn away anyone who needs care. Sessions are held online or in Edmonton (#132 6325 Gateway Blvd Edmonton). Free group counseling is available. Some personal information is required, but not immigration documents. Contact Momentum for more information.
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Reproductive rights are human rights.
Women have the right to make decisions about their bodies and access quality reproductive health care without coercion, discrimination or violence.This includes:
Prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care
Access to contraception and abortion
Family planning services
The right to be informed
Need Support?
If you are pregnant or need medical support for any of the above, please reach out to us.
If you're concerned about giving birth in Edmonton without a healthcare card, contact us. We can connect you with community advocates who may be able to accompany you to the hospital.
Note: We do not publish private clinic information online.
However, for those who reach out directly, we can help arrange free abortion services in partnership with Action Canada via Community and Choice Reproductive Clinic. -
Health is one of the most fundamental pillars of our life. For medical services and other types of doctors, please contact AWARE.
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A healthy smile reflects overall well-being, and yet many people do not have access to dental care. This section highlights organizations that aim to expand access to dental services.
University of Alberta Oral Health Clinic
A teaching clinic that charges affordable rates and does not require a health care number. It is located at the Kaye Edmonton Clinic, 11400 University Ave, 8th Floor..
Radius Community Health & Healing - SHINE Dental Clinic
Offers a free dental clinic most Saturday mornings, by appointment. The clinic is run by the volunteer student organization SHINE (Student Health Initiative for the Needs of Edmonton).
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Connecting with a new community through cultural, educational and recreational activities can be extremely enriching.
City of Edmonton: New Resident Programs
The City of Edmonton has declared itself an “Access Without Fear” city and strives to ensure that no undocumented residents face discrimination. People should not have to provide residency documentation to access city services, including:
citizen and new arrival information centre (offers assistance in more than 150 languages)
See the Newcomers Guide (available in multiple languages) for more information.
Global Café
AWARE, Migrante Alberta, and FAM organize events and workshops designed especially for migrants, helping them integrate, learn and share experiences in a welcoming environment. Please contact AWARE for more information.
Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters (BGCBigs) is a community-supported organization that offers free programming and mentorship for children and youth regardless of their immigration status.
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Spiritual connection can offer comfort, guidance, and community. In this section, we present different churches and religious communities that offer a space for welcome and reflection. Regardless of your beliefs or practices, these institutions are here to support you.
Iglesia Voz de Restauracion Edmonton
9908 67 Ave Edmonton AB
Service in Spanish by Pastor Manolo Lopez. He helps both spiritually and by rallying his congregation to provide support to migrants in need, whether financially or to obtain furniture, clothing or food.
Iglesia De Dios New Hope Church of God
12706 123 St Edmonton AB
Service in Spanish by Pastor Ricardo Calderon.
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Understanding our tax responsibilities is crucial to our financial peace of mind. Here, we provide you with information about service providers specialized in the guidance and management of tax matters, considering the particularities that migrants may face. Their experience will be of great help to clear up doubts and adequately fulfill your obligations.
For more information about this service please contact AWARE.
Contact us
Please reach out if you don't find what you're looking for here, or if you have additional resources to share.