The city plans on helping out Syrian refugees arriving in Guelph by offering them free bus passes, free access to open recreation programs and free access to the Guelph museums.
It would be a one-year pilot project, reviewed at the end and possibly made permanent.
The free recreation passes would not include programs that participants need to register for.
"In response to the recent Syrian refugee crisis, outpouring of public support for refugees in Guelph has been powerful and inspiring. As a community, Guelph welcomes refugees with open arms. Over 600 volunteers have signed up to support Syrian refugees in Guelph, and are poised to welcome 300 - 400 refugees through private sponsorship over the coming months," reads the recommendation heading to the city's governance committee meeting on Thursday. It was prepared by Alex Goss, the city's manager of community investment.
In December city council directed staff to come up with ways to help support the refugees and help them adjust to the city.
Immigrant Services, Wellington County Settlement Services, and the Local Immigration Partnership will be used to help inform the refugees of what is available to them.
The report says there will be no additional cost to the city.
"The first year of arrival for refugees is critical to take steps towards successful settlement and integration into the community. The City of Guelph also has a number of services that can support the successful settlement of refugees; however, many of these services are unfamiliar to new refugees. To be supportive, it is important that City services are accessible and available to refugee families who face a number of unique barriers during this time of significant change."
Passes will be issued from the date of the refugees' arrival in the city for one full year.
In May 2017 a report will come to council detailing use of the program and council will decide at that time whether it wants to make the program permanent.
The city also plans on helping organize orientation sessions for refugees and newcomers to city services.
