Serving the community at large, particularly helping new immigrants from all corners of the world, stretching out a hand of support to the frail and elderly, empowering women and families, and guiding youth – this is everyday business at India Rainbow Community Services of Peel – a well respected organization in Mississauga which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
India Rainbow is a charitable, non-profit community based organization whose purpose is to strengthen the community by improving the quality of life of its diverse population. All services are non-religious and non-political. India Rainbow was founded in 1985 to respond to the needs of South Asian newcomers. After a quarter century of reaching out to those in need, the organization remains fully committed to enhancing the lives of the Peel immigrant community in particular. As a multi-service agency, it offers services that are culturally and linguistically specific – free of charge. The organization offers it many services from 5 different sites in Mississauga and Brampton.
India Rainbow recognizes the many challenges immigrants face and offers settlement programs that include orientation, translation, interpretation, networking, and counseling. The agency provides free English language training with computers to adults to help improve communication skills. Childcare is provided to eligible clients, as well as transportation assistance given to those who qualify. English classes are offered during the day and in the evenings. They also provide information on essential services such as banking, health, housing and education to empower newcomers with knowledge of Canadian laws and other aspects of this society. India Rainbow’s job search and employment related workshops support newcomers during their job search by helping with interview skills, resume writing and information on job market trends.
The women’s program is a specialty area that offers crisis intervention, supportive counselling and legal intervention for women experiencing domestic abuse. It focuses on raising awareness about health and well-being, life skills, positive parenting and self-reliance training. Closely related is our child, youth and parenting program which offers supportive counseling, mediation for parents and youth, cultural information in schools, and mentoring.
Adult Day Program for South Asian seniors – those who are frail, elderly, cognitively impaired and are diagnosed with a disability or long-term illness is an initiative that India Rainbow is particularly proud of. This program also offers support to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia related illnesses. Clients spend a full day at the centre where they are provided with South Asian meals, exercise routines, mental stimulation activities and information on many health related topics. Caregiver support, friendly visiting and assistance with transportation is available. A weekly structured program for healthy seniors is offered separately in Mississauga and Brampton.
The agency offers guidance, referral and housing support to South Asians suffering from mental illnesses who are either homeless or are on the verge of being so. Life skills training and case management to support independent living is the main objective o this program.
India Rainbow intends to strengthen its membership base and encourages individuals from the community to become members and contribute their valuable skills and expertise. Membership entitles them to receive a copy of the quarterly newsletter, Rainbow Connection, as well as voting rights at the annual general meeting. All services offered by the organization are at no charge to clients. Most programs and services are funded by federal, provincial and municipal agencies. The organization also raises funds and accepts donations from members of the community. More detailed information about all the programs and services is available on the organization’s website: www.indiarianbow.org.
India Rainbow’s head office is located in Mississauga at 3038 Hurontario Street, Suite 206 (phone: 905-275-2369). The branch office is located at 9446 McLaughlin Road North, Unit 1 (phone: 905-454-2598) in Brampton. The agency’s regular business hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Author: Daksha Mulla Manager – LINC Program India Rainbow Community Services of Peel
