Starting a new life in Kawartha Lakes or Haliburton is exciting, but it also comes with challenges that many newcomers don’t anticipate. From housing to healthcare, some lessons can make the transition smoother. Here are some of the most common things newcomers “wish they had known earlier”, along with helpful resources to guide you.

🏠 Housing

Securing housing can take longer than expected. Landlords often require credit history, proof of income, and references, which may be difficult for newcomers who are just settling. Starting your search early and reaching out to local services can save time and stress.
🔗   Kawartha Lakes Housing Help

❄️ Winter Preparation

The winters here are long, snowy, and colder than many expect. A warm jacket, waterproof boots, and layered clothing are essential. Heating costs should be included in your budget, and if you drive, learning winter road safety is important.
🔗 Ontario Winter Driving Tips

🤝 Building Community

Relationships take time to develop, but they grow through participation. Attending local events, volunteering, or joining clubs can help newcomers feel connected and supported in their new community.
🔗 KLHIISA Programs & Services

🏥 Healthcare

Ontario’s healthcare system is publicly funded, but services are not always immediate. Newcomers should apply for OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) as soon as possible and learn where the nearest walk-in clinics or urgent care centers are located.
🔗 Apply for OHIP

💼 Employment

The Canadian job market can be different from what newcomers are used to. Résumés and cover letters follow specific standards, and networking is often essential. Free workshops and employment services can help with applications and job readiness.

Helpful links:

• 🔗 Government of Canada Job Bank – official listings of jobs across Canada

• 🔗 Indeed Canada – one of the most widely used job search websites

• 🔗 Employment Standards Act – Ontario Ministry of Labour – know your workplace rights and standards in Ontario

• 🔗 Employment Ontario Services – support and free resources for job seekers

👨‍👩‍👧 Families & Childcare

For newcomers with children, childcare and school planning is an important step. Licensed daycare spots can be limited, so applying early is recommended. The City of Kawartha Lakes also provides childcare subsidies to help families with costs.

• - Apply for daycare spaces as soon as possible, as waitlists can be long.

• - Children can enroll in school starting in junior kindergarten at age 4.

• - Subsidy programs are available for eligible families.

🔗 Child Care & Early Years Services – City of Kawartha Lakes

🚍 Transportation

Public transit is limited outside of larger towns like Lindsay, making a vehicle necessary for many daily activities. Planning for transportation can make work, school, and community involvement more accessible.
🔗 Kawartha Lakes Transit

Starting over in a new place takes patience, learning, and support. With the right information and connections, everyday challenges become easier to manage and opportunities easier to embrace. Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton offer not just services, but also a welcoming community where newcomers can thrive and feel at home.

Written by Mariama Ali Souley.