A new Welcoming Communities Analysis released by the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission, in partnership with the City of Thunder Bay and the Thunder Bay Multicultural Association, outlines strategies to help attract and retain newcomers as part of the city’s long-term growth plans.

The report identifies housing, health care, transit, community services, and child care as key priorities for creating a more welcoming community. Recommendations include recognizing newcomers as a distinct population with unique needs, developing a centralized information hub in collaboration with newcomers, and improving data sharing among service providers.

With immigration levels expected to decline following recent federal policy changes, the report emphasizes that retaining newcomers will be essential to supporting Thunder Bay’s workforce, economy, and future population growth. Read the full report.