Some things are simply out of our control. Add a global pandemic to the mix, full of isolation and social distancing, and life has become  even more stressful!

We have lost so much: our ability to connect with others, our usual routines, perhaps even our creature comforts like good food and travel. Some losses hit us harder than others, however, like losing someone we love. As a caregiver, you may be dealing with loved one’s sudden death or a more gradual loss bit-by-bit due to memory loss, chronic illness or aging.

In our society, we find it hard to face and honour loss, death, and dying, yet it happens all around us during our lives.  Perhaps not having been taught how to grieve properly has led us to avoid it as much as possible. Does everyone start to feel better after a certain time? Does time really heal?  What we have come to understand is that each person grieves in unique ways, and that facing the emotions that come with loss can enrich life moving forward.

Discover your inner resources for coping with grief

Grief and loss are powerful emotions.  They are a part of caregiving and life that cannot be avoided, even before the pandemic. The Wellness Centre team understands, however, that it’s been especially hard to find healthy closure during these unusual times.  WE invite you to join us online for an intimate and caring discussion on the topic of Embracing Grief and Loss with CMA Medeiros, certified Grief Recovery Specialist®.  She will help you discover the resources that you already have within you to grieve fully and well.

Join us on a Wednesday evening to explore why it is so important to honour the grieving process and how to find a path to healing within a supportive community.

Please email Jan janderson@jhpartners.net to register to get the link for the Zoom session.

This activity is made possible thanks to:

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Do other people have a hard time understanding your three year-old talk? Is your child developing differently than their siblings? Are you worried that something might be wrong? Does your family speak more than one language? Do you wonder if this is impacting your son or daughter’s language development?

To learn what is “normal” in children’s speech and language development, attend this informal online session  with members of the early childhood team from Jeffery Hale Community Services and speech-language pathologist, Geneviève Fily-Paré. Ask questions about your child. Get information about helpful resources, if need be.

For more information or to register for the Zoom conference, by April 14, visit:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcufuqgrD8qE9dMV0f67NQSBQDH5Xt7ijiO

For more information, please contact:
Ellie Fleming, 418-684-5333 ext.1265 or efleming@jhpartners.net

Summer is around the corner and the recipe we will learn to prepare will be all you want to eat on hot days: ceviche!

It is a two-for-one experience, learn how to prepare a delicious dish from abroad while meeting other newcomers and broadening your network.

To sign up, simply email Maria Castro, newcomers@veq.ca to obtain the Zoom link. If you have any questions please feel free to give her a call too: (418) 683-2366 ext. 225.

https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAqc-qrrTwvG9PObHkBL8nHXE3lK1AumHIE

Join the Café au lait Crew on  Mondays from the comfort of your home via videoconference.  This is a relaxing, embracing space where you can benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information and  support from Shelley Dupuis, certified Breastfeeding Consultant with Allaitement Québec.  Everyone is welcome – including expectant moms. If you want to enjoy good company, please join us online! You don’t have be breastfeeding to participate. Older sibs are welcome as well.

Sessions take place once a month on Mondays from 10 to 11:00am.

Participants must pre-register so that log-in information can be provided the day prior to the session. Please email jprice@jhpartners.net to sign up.

To learn more please visit  https://wejh.ca/programs-and-activities/family-matters/cafe-au-lait-crew/ 

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

The community Wellness Centre in conjunction wth The Observatory on Aging & Society (OAS) invites you to participate in a one-hour virtual  workshop focused on ageism awareness.

The OAS, a non-profit organization that has been active in Quebec for nearly two decades, has given itself the mission of improving the quality of life of seniors and facing the challenges of ageism as a form of abuse and its consequences within our society. The OAS wishes to change the way we look at aging and seniors. The OAS innovates by using various means to raise awareness among seniors, such as a comic strip it has created entitled: Ageism at a Glance, How Does it Happen?

This tool will be used to demystify ageism, promote care efforts towards seniors and foster healthy intergenerational relationships. The themes illustrated in  comic strip fashion have been observed in various areas of our society, such as family, education, work, health, media and politics.

We look forward to an intergenerational conversation and productive discussion as we explore the timely topic of ageism together. To obtain login details for this free event please contact Jan Anderson, Community Organizer with the WE  by the April 26 registration deadline.

This session is free of charge as part of a grant from the Québec Ami des Aînés (QADA) program.

Centre R.I.R.E. offers a lot of services to newcomers, and in several languages, including English.

Do you walk to or from work every day? Are you planning to picnic soon? Or you simply enjoy going for leisurely strolls? Keep your eyes wide open and your camera handy because you could be the lucky winner of $100 in prizes!

How to participate:

1. Send an email to María Castro (newcomers@veq.ca) to get the list of items to be found.
2. Next time you go walk your dog, get your groceries or when you go get your mail for example make sure you pay close attention to your surroundings, you may find the answer to the clues right in front of you!
3. Take a photo of yourself with each item and send photos to newcomers@veq.ca to enter your name (and last name) in the raffle. You only need to find 3 items from the list to be considered for the prize.
4. You have until May 19th to participate. The raffle will be on May 21st at noon.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact María Castro: newcomers@veq.ca or by phone (418) 683-2366 ext. 225. She will be more than happy to assist you.

Important: Québec is still under alert due to the number of COVID-19 cases, please make sure to observe the authorities’ measures when applicable. 

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

If you’re the parent of a 4 year old don’t miss the chance to partake in a fabulous workshop being offered for FREE by Jeffery Hale Community Partners. Join psycho-educator, Julie Fraser and other English-speaking families virtually for our annual  Get Ready For Kindergarten workshop designed to help prepare your child for school next fall.  

Register for this even through the following registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMldOyprT0pEtXbXQzSYKOe5GJ9z5zB3s4A

If you wish to register for this event, please contact  Jessica Price our Family Matters Interim Program Coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

As children explore the world, they learn about their surroundings by putting EVERYTHING in their mouths!   This means that choking, whether on food or objects, is a great possibility with young children.

You need to watch them all the time! Since choking happens so fast, the best you can do as a parent is be prepared.

Join experienced Red Cross certified host William Hush for this step by step virtual workshop and learn what to do and how to react fast and efficiently if your child chokes. 

Register here via our ZOOM registration page: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErf-6vrDwvG9CLOIWXEvHZSum-PGC2P6h3

For more details, contact Jessica Price at jprice@jhpartners.net or 418 684-5333, ext. 1550

Take-a-Break has gone virtual during the pandemic period. It’s still a great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of preschoolers. All you need to connect is internet access and  a cell phone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam. If you prefer, you can opt to join by your landline. 

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of preschool-aged children.

• Hear guest speakers on topics of interest to parents.
• Talk about being a parent and get support.
• Exchange ideas and share information.

This week on May 7th join us for ZOOM chat among parents and we will do Family Yoga on June 4th instead

For more details or to register to obtain log-in details , please email Jessica at jprice@jhpartners.net

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Baby Chat Café has gone virtual during the pandemic period. It’s still a great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age. All you need to connect is internet access and  a cell phone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam. If you prefer, you can opt to join by your landline. 

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• It is free of charge but registration by the day prior is necessary so we can send you the login details
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Virtual sessions mean no more parking hassles!

ZOOM into Baby Chat Café on  May 11th 

Join us for a discussion about teething.  Learn a little more about how teething affects your little one, when it can start, how long it can last, and some tips and tricks to support your child through this important stage.

For more details or to register to obtain log-in details , please email our Interim Program Coordinator by email jprice@jhpartners.net

Today’s environment is stressful in many different ways. Loneliness, uncertainty, grief, and fear have been part of our daily lives since March 2020, particularly for those of us caring for senior loved ones.   Experts advise us to practice living mindfully in order to find more serenity and stability in our thoughts, hearts and lives, but is it really possible in the current context? The answer is yes!

Caregivers are invited to join experienced psychologist Dr. Meagan Daley in this mindfulness workshop to help understand and put into practice tools for finding more calm and letting go – even in the eye of the storm. “You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf” (Jon Kabat-Zinn) Register in advance to obtain the  Zoom log-in details. Contact our community organizer by email to reserve your seat.

This session has been made possible thanks to funding from:

Who We Are

Travellin’ Toddler Time (TTT) is free activity in English for children 3 and 4 years old and their parents/ caregivers or grandparents. Participants sing songs, hear stories, make crafts and enjoy a snack.

Spring is here and so are all the creepy crawly bugs! Join this month’s host, the Wellness Centre  for a “bug-tastic” Virtual Travellin Toddler Time. The last TTT until September.

Join in on the fun!

Join the Café au lait Crew on  Mondays from the comfort of your home via videoconference.  This is a relaxing, embracing space where you can benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information and  support from Shelley Dupuis, certified Breastfeeding Consultant with Allaitement Québec.  Everyone is welcome – including expectant moms. If you want to enjoy good company, please join us online! You don’t have be breastfeeding to participate. Older sibs are welcome as well.

Sessions take place once a month on Mondays from 10 to 11:00am.

Participants must pre-register so that log-in information can be provided the day prior to the session. Please email jprice@jhpartners.net to sign up.

To learn more please visit  https://wejh.ca/programs-and-activities/family-matters/cafe-au-lait-crew/ 

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Lyme disease by tick bites poses a significant risks to Canadians spending more time outdoors and who may be at a greater risk of this severe illness that is ever-present and spreading.

Join us and learn how to stay safe as you live, work and play outdoors.

This health video conference with Kadeja Lefebvre, Naturopathic Practitioner, will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, May 19th 10:00 a.m.- 11:30 a.m. ET

Click on the green Register Button above.

A CHSSN initiative funded through Health Canada’s Official Languages Health Contribution Program 2018-2023

Note: Naturopathy is not a regulated profession in the province of Quebec (unlike most other provinces). As such, naturopaths are limited in the level of care they can offer the public. Naturopathic plans include lifestyle and supplement suggestions. These are not to be construed as a prescription and are not meant to replace any current or future conventional medical care. Under no circumstances is a naturopath trying to impersonate a medical doctor.  Also, the services of naturopaths are not covered by the RAMQ.  The RAMQ website says that they may be covered only when provided in a facility (ie. hospital, CLSC, residential and long-term care centre, rehabilitation centre).

May 22nd CANCELLED!

*** Reservation is REQUIRED***

Only 8 people are allowed to participate, per the authority’s guidelines.

*** Reservation is REQUIRED***

Only 8 people are allowed to participate, per the authority’s guidelines.

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Do you have a child in the sixth grade moving onto secondary school next year?  Both English-speaking parents AND their soon-to-be high schoolers are invited to take part in this fabulous virtual workshop being offered FREE by the community Wellness Centre.

Join psycho-educator Julie Fraser and others for this new workshop designed to cover many of the questions and worries you might have about this milestone time in a young person’s life. Julie has much knowledge to share thanks to her career as a pyscho-educator in a primary school, and from the first-hand experience she gained when her own children transitioned to high school.

Click here to attend and to get the Zoom info to access this session on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

May 22nd CANCELLED!

*** Reservation is REQUIRED***

Only 8 people are allowed to participate, per the authority’s guidelines.

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Baby Chat Café has gone virtual during the pandemic period. It’s still a great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age. All you need to connect is internet access and  a cell phone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam. If you prefer, you can opt to join by your landline. 

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• It is free of charge but registration by the day prior is necessary so we can send you the login details
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Virtual sessions mean no more parking hassles!

ZOOM into Baby Chat Café on  June 8th

Join us for a discussion about possibilities and ideas of how to stay connected over the summer months.

For more details or to register to obtain log-in details , please email our Program Coordinator by email jprice@jhpartners.net

*** Reservation is REQUIRED***

Only 8 people are allowed to participate, per the authority’s guidelines.

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Preserve your eyesight and improve your vision. Learn about normal vision changes and the various diseases affecting vision as we age and how to stay safe and independent by taking steps to improve your eye health.

Join us on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Click on the green Register Button above. Under the question block which asks: Name of local community organization that invited you to this event, please insert JH Community Partners. Kindly contact Claire Quenville, Well 50+ Program Coordinator, if you need assistance or additional information.

About your presenter
Dr. Antonio Canuto, OD, Optometrist, a University of Montreal graduate, has been practicing pediatric and geriatric low vision optometry at the Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre since 1996. Dr. Canuto has a particular interest in macular degeneration.

A CHSSN initiative funded through Health Canada’s Official Languages Health Contribution Program 2018-2023

Kate Nadeau, breastfeeding coach with Allaitement Québec and mother of two will offer practical advice to expectant parents about breastfeeding

• Learn what to expect as your baby begins nursing
• Discover tips to help baby latch on easily
• Find the position that’s right for you and baby
• Follow baby’s rhythm and establish your own family routines
• Learn what Dads can do to support the nursing process
• Ensure you know what do if minor nursing problems arise
• Rest assured baby is gaining weight, growing and thriving on breast milk alone

Get your ZOOM registration link here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0sfu-tpjIqG9LHNpo9u73Re10S2bw6kThh

For more details, contact Jessica Price at jprice@jhpartners.net or 418 684-5333, ext. 1550

Rights don’t get lost with age join us for a free interactive virtual conference on seniors’ rights presented by a lawyer from  JURIPOP / Caravane 360 on June 17 .

Learn more about:

Autonomy of the person · Abuse
Housing · Power of attorney and protection mandate
Wills and estate · Medical aid in dying
Anticipated medical directives

Please register by June 16 with Marie-Christine Beaulieu, Program Coordinator to obtain the Zoom  login details
418 684-5333 ext. 2212
mcbeaulieu@jhpartners.net

This activity has been made possible thanks to funding from:

May 22nd CANCELLED!

*** Reservation is REQUIRED***

Only 8 people are allowed to participate, per the authority’s guidelines.

Do you enjoy singing? Would you like to learn new songs? Join Choir Director, Katharina Urbschat, on Zoom, and be part of the Local Vocals Singing Ensemble.
You will sing primarily in English but don’t be surprised if Katharina has you learning songs in German, Latin and French!

Baby Chat Café has gone virtual during the pandemic period. It’s still a great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age. All you need to connect is internet access and  a cell phone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam. If you prefer, you can opt to join by your landline. 

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• It is free of charge but registration by the day prior is necessary so we can send you the login details
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Virtual sessions mean no more parking hassles!

ZOOM into Baby Chat Café on  Tuesday, July 13th

Join us for a virtual get together and connect with other English-speaking parents and babies!

For more details or to register to obtain log-in details , please email our Program Coordinator by email jprice@jhpartners.net

New to Quebec and eager to discover this beautiful city? We’ve got you covered!

Sign up for a FREE walking tour around Old Quebec. All you need is a bottle of water, your walking shoes, your mask, comfortable clothes (and an umbrella or rain jacket in case it rains), a camera if you wish to capture the beauty of this city, and sharp ears!

***Due to the great success last year, we have added an additional date this year, so more newcomers can enjoy this awesome experience!***

Space is LIMITED, so reservation is required.

Contact Newcomers Coordinator via phone (418) 683-2366 ext. 225 or by email at newcomers@veq.ca

Tour #1 From 9:30 to 11:30 AM
Tour #2 From 1:00 to 3:00 PM

New to Quebec and eager to discover this beautiful city? We’ve got you covered!

Sign up for a FREE walking tour around Old Quebec. All you need is a bottle of water, your walking shoes, your mask, comfortable clothes (and an umbrella or rain jacket in case it rains), a camera if you wish to capture the beauty of this city, and sharp ears!

***Due to the great success last year, we have added an additional date this year, so more newcomers can enjoy this awesome experience!***

Space is LIMITED, so reservation is required.

Contact Newcomers Coordinator via phone (418) 683-2366 ext. 225 or by email at newcomers@veq.ca

Tour #1 From 9:30 to 11:30 AM
Tour #2 From 1:00 to 3:00 PM

What you need to bring: Yoga mat, water bottle, small towel, comfortable clothing and a smile 🙂

***PLEASE NOTE that in case of rain, the Yoga session will be hosted on Zoom and a link will be sent directly to you.

Eager to go for a hike to one of the most beautiful parks in the area? We are providing transportation to the Jacques-Cartier National Park, so if you recently moved to the Greater Québec City region and would like to explore this place while making new friends, you only need to sign up!

The bus will take us to the Discovery & Services Centre, situated on km 10 from the park’s entrance. Each passenger must have purchased his/her day pass in advance. To get your daily pass to the park, click here. Once Maria has confirmed your seat and you have purchased your ticket, please send her the QR code, so the park’s staff can easily scan them all together the morning of the trip at the park’s entrance. If you have difficulties purchasing your ticket, please feel free to communicate with María, she’ll gladly assist you. If you are coming by car to the departing point (1270, chemin Sainte-Foy) you can park your vehicle for free in the parking lot behind the Jeffery Hale Pavilion. I will give you a parking ticket that will waive the fees.

Once there, you can choose the activities you would like to do, like exploring one of the many trails listed below. Please take into consideration the trail’s length and estimated duration*. We will leave the park at 3:15 PM.

Every passenger is expected to follow Public Health’s recommendations regarding the prevention of the coronavirus situation. Please wear a mask at all times during the bus ride.

Trail name: difficulty, length, type of trail (roundtrip or loop), estimated duration* (it all depends on one’s rhythm)

• L’Aperçu : Easy, 2.2 km (loop), 45-60 min
• Les Cascades : Easy, 4 km (loop) 1.5 h
• La Rivière-Sautauriski : Easy, 4,8 km 1.5 h
• Les Coulées : Intermediate, 10,4 km (loop) 3.5 h
• Le Draveur Sud: Intermediate,(roundtrip), 14.8 km 5 h
• L’Escarpement : Hard, 9.2 km (roundtrip), 3.5 h

Please remember to follow safety guidelines when going for a hike, like wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, or notifying someone which trail you will explore. You can take a look at this suggested Day hiking checklist. It is also recommended that you download the trail map, you can do so here or on this website. The application AVENZA Maps also allows you to download them for free.

Other activities:

It is also possible to practice canoeing, kayaking, or fishing at the park. However, reservation might be required and fishing gear is not available for rent,  you would have to bring your own fishing equipment as well as count with the corresponding fishing permits. You are allowed to bring your own inflatable boat, remember though, that it is MANDATORY for all to wear a life jacket when practicing water sports in the river (depending on availability, you may borrow one at the Discovery Centre). The park has several spots where it is possible to picnic or simply relax.

Canoe/boat: Only with reservation by phone (Call Centre):

1-800-665-6527 (toll-free number, Canada and the United States only)
418-704-8217 (if you wish to contact one of our customer service advisors with your cell phone)
00 800 4008 0011 (toll-free number, international)

Other activities for children.

The majority of the activities take place in the morning and are first-come, first-served basis.

Sous les roches géantes is the only activity that requires registration by phone (418) 848-3169 ext. 6.  It is $17 per family, of 2 adults and 3 children maximum.

There are two groups available:

• From 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
• From 2:30 PM – 3:45 PM (remember that the departure from the park is scheduled at 3:15 PM)

***VEQ will provide the transportation for FREE, entrance fees and other activities are NOT covered by VEQ*** 

Contact María Castro, Newcomers Coordinator if you wish for more information or visit the park’s website.

.

(418) 683-2366 ext. 225  or newcomers@veq.ca

Join our volunteer EPIQ host Amy at the beautiful Parc de l’Anse Benson on Saturday, August 7th.

Discover this charming south shore park with a great view on the St.Lawrence River and the iconic bridges. Meet or catch up with fellow English-speaking parents and take a deep breath of fresh air after the long year we’ve had. Hey! We’ve weathered parenthood during a pandemic. No small feet (pun intended).

If it rains, the event will be cancelled.

SSEN (South Shore English Network), a local community organization, is providing some refreshments & snacks but it’s bring your own picnic blanket and lunch!

For more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre.

Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

Please check out the Family Matters e-newsletter or visit our EPIQ information page for more details.

EPIQ stands for English-speaking Parents in Quebec City and it’s the driving force behind a variety of fun activities for parents and kids.

We’re back!!  EPIQ will once again have in-person activities again in its 2021-’22 year!  What better way to start than with an in-person EPIQ Planning Party, and YOU are invited!

EPIQ is a great way to build a network of new friends and a welcoming community vibe.  In recent years, parents have hosted family outings, events for moms and dads like pumpkin patch outings, apple picking, clothing swaps, spa nights, tobogganing, and our annual HOHOHO Holiday Party.  All events are led by volunteer parents like yourselves but we are here to help you spread the word.

Be part of the planning for the coming year! Join us on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at 6:00 pm.  Bring your smiles, energy, event ideas, agendas, and your appetites! Please let us know if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions so we can take this into account when ordering a boxed meal for you.

Sign up FAST! Only 10 parents can register due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

New to Quebec and eager to discover this beautiful city? We’ve got you covered!

Sign up for a FREE walking tour around Old Quebec. All you need is a bottle of water, your walking shoes, your mask, comfortable clothes (and an umbrella or rain jacket in case it rains), a camera if you wish to capture the beauty of this city, and sharp ears!

***Due to the great success last year, we have added an additional date this year, so more newcomers can enjoy this awesome experience!***

Space is LIMITED, so reservation is required.

Contact Newcomers Coordinator via phone (418) 683-2366 ext. 225 or by email at newcomers@veq.ca

Tour #1 From 9:30 to 11:30 AM
Tour #2 From 1:00 to 3:00 PM

New to Quebec and eager to discover this beautiful city? We’ve got you covered!

Sign up for a FREE walking tour around Old Quebec. All you need is a bottle of water, your walking shoes, your mask, comfortable clothes (and an umbrella or rain jacket in case it rains), a camera if you wish to capture the beauty of this city, and sharp ears!

***Due to the great success last year, we have added an additional date this year, so more newcomers can enjoy this awesome experience!***

Space is LIMITED, so reservation is required.

Contact Newcomers Coordinator via phone (418) 683-2366 ext. 225 or by email at newcomers@veq.ca

Tour #1 From 9:30 to 11:30 AM
Tour #2 From 1:00 to 3:00 PM

Are you new to Quebec City and looking for something fun to do? The Voice of English-speaking Quebec invites you for a fun-filled evening at the Newcomers Free Sunset Ferry Ride on Thursday, August 26th from 6:00 to 8:30 PM.

We will ride the ferry to Quai Paquet in Lévis that leaves at 6:00 PM. Once there, we can grab some food or some ice cream (or both!) from the food trucks available or from the ice cream shop located one block away from the quai, while getting to know each other! We will be returning on the 8:00 PM ferry (to Quebec).  We will bring board games to facilitate your interaction with others. At the quai, there are 160 water jets, perfect to refresh you, so make sure you bring or wear your sandals or why not your swimsuit! If you are an avid photographer, you can also check out the Red stairs (193 steps) located two blocks away from the quai, and admire the beauty of the view from atop. There is also a café near the quai, not far from the ice cream shop. Feeling like picknicking? By all means, bring your own snacks and a picnic blanket or portable chairs!

The fees for the ferry ride are covered for participants and the event is open to all English-speaking newcomers living in the Greater Quebec City region. Registration is required and we have a limited number of places.  Please RSVP by calling 418-683-2366, extension 225. Or email newcomers@veq.ca

The Ferris Wheel ride and any other purchases (like meals) are not covered.

Take a look at the food trucks found at Quai Paquet:

• • • Brown Smoked Meat
    • Chez Victor (August 6 – September 9)
    • Brise-Glace / Bar laitier mobile musical

*** NEW EVENT ***

Ladies and gentlemen, this may be your chance to find your Fiona or your Shrek! We are visiting for the first time ever, a peat bog in Beaumont. VEQ will provide the transportation to the Grande Plée Bleue for FREE. Once there, we will take an interpretive tour (2.5-3 hours long) guided by experts in the field. The trail is 3,4 kilometers on flat terrain so families can bring a trail stroller.

The visit is free and donations to the Conservation Society are encouraged.

 ***Registration is required!***  The maximum of people is 15, children included. 

It is recommended to bring the following:

• Sunscreen and bug repellent
• Hat, sunglasses and a water bottle
• Binoculars
• Good walking shoes (definitely do not recommend flip flops)
• Your smile!
• Snacks (it will be a long morning)
• A picnic lunch? The estimated time of arrival in Québec City is around 1:00 PM, there is a gorgeous park across the street (Samuel-Holland Park) with picnic tables, small tables, and chairs. Perfect place to fuel up and continue enjoying your Saturday.

Since the boardwalk in the bog doesn’t permit a 2 meters’ distance between visitors the mask must be worn at all times.

Baby Chat Café is back at the Wellness Centre!

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• Rree of charge
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Scale available to weigh your baby

What’s new!

• Each parent/baby will have their own little “zone/bubble”.   We will space mats far enough apart to ensure safe distancing and sanitary measures.
• Please bring your own blanket and toys for your baby.
• Sadly, for now, we cannot offer coffee, tea and treats just to keep things as safe as possible.  Feel free to bring your own water or beverage.
• Registration required: We can only welcome 5 parents (with their babies) due to public health measures.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

“Knowing how to act in a medical emergency can save a life.” (Mayo Clinic, 2017).

Knowledge is power, and the more we know, the quicker and better we can act. Join us to learn about the most common medical emergencies that seniors and caregivers may face and how to handle them.

Presenter, Jennifer Hobbs-Robert, M.ScA, BCN, CNEd, Senior Advisor – JHCP

Click the green “Register” button above to sign up.  Hope to see you there!

Giving birth in the midst of a pandemic is certainly not something any of us ever wished for!  It is, however, a current reality for many local English-speaking parents-to-be.  The Wellness Centre is here to support you in this highly unusual time.

Get ready for birth in these unusual times by taking part in a three-session virtual prenatal course guided by Doula, Camille Nadeau. Learn all about Camille in a recent article about her in the Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph newspaper.

The aim of these sessions is to give you tips for an active and calm childbirth, and help prepare you for the unexpected. We hope empower you on how to make an informed choice in terms of medical decisions and how to stay calm and resilient, no matter what.

• Where: Online videoconference sessions. All you need is a cellphone, tablet or laptop with a camera and an internet connection.
• When:  Thursdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Topics to be covered

Our user-friendly online course is done in a way that will give you a chance to connect with the other participants.  In these three sessions, Camille will cover:

• Understanding labour
• Managing the intensity of birth
• Developing your  personalized birth plan
• Breastfeeding and postnatal period

Special notes and how to register

The Wellness Centre has offered to partly cover the cost of this course during the pandemic. Your cost is $50 for the package of four sessions.  For more information please contact  Jessica Price, Program Coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net or reserve your place by making an online payment of $50 today.

Giving birth in the midst of a pandemic is certainly not something any of us ever wished for!  It is, however, a current reality for many local English-speaking parents-to-be.  The Wellness Centre is here to support you in this highly unusual time.

Get ready for birth in these unusual times by taking part in a three-session virtual prenatal course guided by Doula, Camille Nadeau. Learn all about Camille in a recent article about her in the Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph newspaper.

The aim of these sessions is to give you tips for an active and calm childbirth, and help prepare you for the unexpected. We hope empower you on how to make an informed choice in terms of medical decisions and how to stay calm and resilient, no matter what.

• Where: Online videoconference sessions. All you need is a cellphone, tablet or laptop with a camera and an internet connection.
• When:  Thursdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Topics to be covered

Our user-friendly online course is done in a way that will give you a chance to connect with the other participants.  In these three sessions, Camille will cover:

• Understanding labour
• Managing the intensity of birth
• Developing your  personalized birth plan
• Breastfeeding and postnatal period

Special notes and how to register

The Wellness Centre has offered to partly cover the cost of this course during the pandemic. Your cost is $50 for the package of four sessions.  For more information please contact  Jessica Price, Program Coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net or reserve your place by making an online payment of $50 today.

VEQ will provide transportation to Cap Tourmente on Saturday, September 18th, 2021.

This is a great place for:

Admire the foliage changing colours

The observation of the snow geese migration (among other birds)

Hiking to one of their more than half dozen trails

Participating in the Nature Georally and Geocaching

Picnicking

There’s no better fall activity than apple picking!  Come join our volunteer EPIQ hosts Hilary and Shelley at Cidrerie & Vergers St-Nicolas on Saturday, September 25, at 10:00 a.m. for a fun morning of climbing ladders and munching on apples.  Take home enough apples to make pies, soups, and applesauce for months!

Pay for your apples and hang out with the group! You may also want to visit the market nearby with fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables, guided tours, and free cider tastings.

Hope to see you there!

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

Join us and benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information including breastfeeding support.

• Connect with other English-speaking parents
• Support provided by a helpful Certified Breastfeeding Consultant from Allaitement Québec
• Scale available to check baby’s growth
• Everyone is welcome including expectant moms, moms who have breastfed before, those who are breastfeeding now, as well as those who have chosen another feeding option.

Registration required. We can only accommodate 5 parents plus your abdue to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Are you interested in working for the Government of Canada? Where or how do you even start your application process? Start by blocking September 29th at 6:30 PM on your agenda!

VEQ will host an information session with representatives from the Public Service Commission of Canada, during which you will learn how to apply (step by step) for jobs in the federal government.

This event will be held virtually, via TEAMS. To participate, simply click on the following link: https://bit.ly/3CI9pmG

Parental support and involvement are  key to making school a positive experience right from the start.  We all want our children to enjoy learning,  to succeed academically and to be happy at school. Join us to discover how you can support your child as you navigate Quebec’s educational system together.

The session will cover these topics:

• Arriving at school ready to learn
• Organizing themselves
• Reinforcing learning concepts at home
• Expanding their vocabulary particularly in their second language
• Establishing good  rapport with teacher and school
• Developing study skills  and much more!

Click here to register and to get the Zoom info to access this session on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Learn more about our School Readiness series, where you will also find a link to helpful documents prepared the School Services team of Jeffery Hale Community Services.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

Giving birth in the midst of a pandemic is certainly not something any of us ever wished for!  It is, however, a current reality for many local English-speaking parents-to-be.  The Wellness Centre is here to support you in this highly unusual time.

Get ready for birth in these unusual times by taking part in a three-session virtual prenatal course guided by Doula, Camille Nadeau. Learn all about Camille in a recent article about her in the Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph newspaper.

The aim of these sessions is to give you tips for an active and calm childbirth, and help prepare you for the unexpected. We hope empower you on how to make an informed choice in terms of medical decisions and how to stay calm and resilient, no matter what.

• Where: Online videoconference sessions. All you need is a cellphone, tablet or laptop with a camera and an internet connection.
• When:  Thursdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Topics to be covered

Our user-friendly online course is done in a way that will give you a chance to connect with the other participants.  In these three sessions, Camille will cover:

• Understanding labour
• Managing the intensity of birth
• Developing your  personalized birth plan
• Breastfeeding and postnatal period

Special notes and how to register

The Wellness Centre has offered to partly cover the cost of this course during the pandemic. Your cost is $50 for the package of four sessions.  For more information please contact  Jessica Price, Program Coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net or reserve your place by making an online payment of $50 today.

Join our volunteer EPIQ hosts Liana and Amanda at the beautiful Base de Plein Air in Sainte-Foy for a Nature Walk with Children on October 1.  The topic for this walk will be Fall Trees and Liana will be basing the activity on the Nature Play Today curriculum by Sarah Szuminski.

Nature play is a great way for a child to learn about the world around them.  After a short chat about the environment that you will explore, toddlers can dive into the rich sensory experience that is the great outdoors!

The target age group for this activity is 2 to 5, though younger and older siblings are welcome!

Notes: This event will happen rain or shine so be sure to dress for the weather. Feel free to bring a snack for your child/children for snack time.  The walk should take about an hour.

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

*** IT’S BACK! ***

Ladies and gentlemen, this may be your chance to find your Fiona or your Shrek! We have been invited to their humble abode, ahem, a peat bog in Beaumont. VEQ will provide the transportation to the Grande Plée Bleue for FREE. Once there, we will take an interpretive tour (2.5 hours) guided by experts in the field. The trail is 3,4 kilometers on flat terrain so families can bring a trail stroller.

•  When selecting your tickets on Eventbrite, choose “VEQ Newcomer” if you are a newcomer from the Greater Québec City region. Departure from Québec City: 8:00 a.m.   ( 1270 Ch Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 2M4)
•  If you are part of the South Shore English Network (MCDC) group, select “General Admission” when getting your tickets. Departure from Lévis: 8:20 a.m.  (1190B Rue de Courchevel, St-Romuald, Quebec G6W 0M6)

The visit is free and donations to the Conservation Society are encouraged.

 ***Registration is required!***  The maximum of people is 30, children included. 

It is recommended to bring the following:

• Sunscreen and bug repellent
• Hat, sunglasses and a water bottle
• Binoculars
• Good walking shoes (definitely do not recommend flip flops)
• Your smile!
• Snacks (it will be a long morning)
• A cold lunch

*** NEW EVENT ***

Ladies and gentlemen, this may be your chance to find your Fiona or your Shrek! We are visiting for the first time ever, a peat bog in Beaumont. VEQ will provide the transportation to the Grande Plée Bleue for FREE. Once there, we will take an interpretive tour (2.5-3 hours long) guided by experts in the field. The trail is 3,4 kilometers on flat terrain so families can bring a trail stroller.

The visit is free and donations to the Conservation Society are encouraged.

 ***Registration is required!***  The maximum of people is 15, children included. 

It is recommended to bring the following:

• Sunscreen and bug repellent
• Hat, sunglasses and a water bottle
• Binoculars
• Good walking shoes (definitely do not recommend flip flops)
• Your smile!
• Snacks (it will be a long morning)
• A picnic lunch? The estimated time of arrival in Québec City is around 1:00 PM, there is a gorgeous park across the street (Samuel-Holland Park) with picnic tables, small tables, and chairs. Perfect place to fuel up and continue enjoying your Saturday.

Since the boardwalk in the bog doesn’t permit a 2 meters’ distance between visitors the mask must be worn at all times.

Baby Chat Café is back at the Wellness Centre!

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• free of charge
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Scale available to weigh your baby

What’s new!

• Each parent/baby will have their own little “zone/bubble”.   We will space mats far enough apart to ensure safe distancing and sanitary measures.
• Please bring your own blanket and toys for your baby.
• Sadly, for now, we cannot offer coffee, tea and treats just to keep things as safe as possible.  Feel free to bring your own water or beverage.
• Registration required: We can only welcome 5 parents (with their babies) due to public health measures.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Giving birth in the midst of a pandemic is certainly not something any of us ever wished for!  It is, however, a current reality for many local English-speaking parents-to-be.  The Wellness Centre is here to support you in this highly unusual time.

Get ready for birth in these unusual times by taking part in a three-session virtual prenatal course guided by Doula, Camille Nadeau. Learn all about Camille in a recent article about her in the Quebec Chronicle-Telegraph newspaper.

The aim of these sessions is to give you tips for an active and calm childbirth, and help prepare you for the unexpected. We hope empower you on how to make an informed choice in terms of medical decisions and how to stay calm and resilient, no matter what.

• Where: Online videoconference sessions. All you need is a cellphone, tablet or laptop with a camera and an internet connection.
• When:  Thursdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Topics to be covered

Our user-friendly online course is done in a way that will give you a chance to connect with the other participants.  In these three sessions, Camille will cover:

• Understanding labour
• Managing the intensity of birth
• Developing your  personalized birth plan
• Breastfeeding and postnatal period

Special notes and how to register

The Wellness Centre has offered to partly cover the cost of this course during the pandemic. Your cost is $50 for the package of four sessions.  For more information please contact  Jessica Price, Program Coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net or reserve your place by making an online payment of $50 today.

Join us for an informative session with:

• Dr. Serge Gauthier, MD-Neurology
• Claire Webster, PAC, CPCA, Founder and President of Caregiver Crosswalk

Our presenters will share practical advice on how to care for a person living with dementia as well as important considerations to ensure the safety and well-being of both the individual as well as the care partner.

Registration in advance on Zoom is required. Click on the green register button above. 

In honor of Occupational Therapy Month, we invite you to join us in discussing the role of an Occupational Therapist (OT).

Karine Morel, OT, from the Day Centre of Jeffery Hale Community Services, will cover the following topics:

• The role of an OT
• Fall prevention
• How to get up from a fall
• Home safety
• How to access services

If you would like to join us, please send me an email at: cquenville@jhpartners.net

IMPORTANT NOTE: This activity has been postponed until Sunday, October 17 due to weather conditions.

Shelley Dupuis and Jarryd Smith will host a family hike on the Sentier de la Foret ancienne trail at Mont Wright on Sunday, October 17.  Meet in the parking lot at 9:30 a.m.  This is a popular place, so hopefully the early start will allow everyone to get a parking spot!  The plan is to hike to the top and enjoy a lunch together, so be sure to bring along a picnic lunch for your family.

Of special note

• Mont Wright charges a fee of $7 per adult.  Children under 17 are free. There is a ticket machine at the entrance to the trails, near the reception pavilion. You can pay by credit or debit (Visa, Mastercard, Interac)
•  The trail we will be taking is called ‘Sentier de la Foret ancienne’.  It is a 4km loop.
• We expect this outing to take 3.5 hours.  It will be a 2 hour hike to the top, a half hour stop for lunch, and then an hour to come back down.
• Be sure to dress for the weather and pack a lunch, snacks and water.
• See this map for directions to get there.

Who can attend

This particular event is open to all parents and kiddos!

For more details please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Check out the rest of the fall EPIQ schedule.

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

Caregivers’ Circle On-line Yoga session with Susa Bernard.

You will need a computer/tablet with internet connection, Yoga mat, bottle of water and a smile 🙂

Send Claire an email to confirm your presence. cquenville@jhpartners.net

Susa is a member of the Canadian Yoga Alliance. She has taught yoga for two years and practiced it for seven years.

http://www.susasparkleyoga.com

Feeling anxious? What are the signs and symptoms of anxiety? How to recognize if you or someone you love is feeling anxious. Tips and tricks to help you cope and take care of yourself and your loved one.

Our presenter Eric Souliere is a Social Worker at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, currently working in the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program. . Eric has worked in the field of Mental Health and Addictions for the last 15 years with very diverse populations.

Join psychologist Dr. David Martin to learn about performance anxiety & stress:
– Why do people get anxious regarding performance?
– Other factors that affect performance: family pressures, past traumas, motivational problems and depression
– What is stress and anxiety: why do we have it?
– Tools for managing situational anxiety

To register for the Zoom videoconference, visit:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYlf-qrrTovGNGvvO2CXmgp2thSaaRgn57j 

For more information, please contact:
Ellie Fleming, 418-684-5333 ext.11835 or efleming@jhpartners.net

Join Voice of English-speaking Québec (VEQ) and the Wellness Centre for an informational evening about the Quebec school system.  If you ever wondered how the school system works in Quebec or how it is different from where you moved from, then this is for you!  Our guest speaker Gina Farnell will enlighten us on what is unique about Québec’s school system and how it is different from elsewhere.

Some topics that will be covered:

• A brief look at the history of the education system here.
• The levels of education from Pre-Kindergarten to Cegep and University.
• How the names of grades are different here from elsewhere.  Cycle 1 and 2, Secondary 1 and 2.
• What is a typical school day like for a child? How does before and after school care work?
• What is the Cegep system?
• Quebec universities and the low tuition rates.
• And more!

Click here to register and to get the Zoom info to access this session on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Learn more about our School Readiness series, where you will also find a link to helpful documents prepared the School Services team of Jeffery Hale Community Services.

Questions? Please contact Maria Castro at Voice of English-speaking Québec (VEQ) for more details: newcomers@veq.ca

Unfortunately, we had to cancel this event due to low registrations.  We hope to be able to offer it in the winter of 2022.

Kate Nadeau, breastfeeding coach with Allaitement Québec and mother of two will offer practical advice to expectant parents about breastfeeding

• Learn what to expect as your baby begins nursing
• Discover tips to help baby latch on easily
• Find the position that’s right for you and baby
• Follow baby’s rhythm and establish your own family routines
• Learn what Dads can do to support the nursing process
• Ensure you know what do if minor nursing problems arise
• Rest assured baby is gaining weight, growing and thriving on breast milk alone

Get your ZOOM registration link here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0od-GqrDMvHtB8rAygfjG7sTFhAfL7B4ri

For more details, contact Jessica Price at jprice@jhpartners.net or 418 684-5333, ext. 12009

Unfortunately, we had to cancel this event.  Check out some of these other great Halloween activities around town.  

Join volunteer hosts Amanda and Liana for a fun morning of decorating pumpkins!  This will event will take place on the grounds outside the Gatehouse on the grounds of the St. Patrick’s Cemetery. next to Saint Brigid’s Home.

• Bring your own pumpkin(s) and we will provide the decorations.
• Tables are limited, so please bring a blanket for your family to sit on and decorate your pumpkin.
• This will be an outdoor activity, so please dress appropriately for the weather.
• Parking is available on ch. Saint-Louis on the east side of the road. (same side as the cemetery)

Who can attend

This event is open to all parents and kiddos!

Sign up FAST 

Only 25 people can register due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.  For more details or to register, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

For more details please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Check out the rest of the fall EPIQ schedule.

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

Join us and benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information including breastfeeding support.

• Connect with other English-speaking parents
• Support provided by our breastfeeding coach
• Scale available to check baby’s growth
• Everyone is welcome including expectant moms, moms who have breastfed before, those who are breastfeeding now, as well as those who have chosen another feeding option.

Registration required. We can only accommodate 5 parents plus your babies due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Join us for a valuable information session with The Alzheimer’s Society of Quebec

This session will explore: 

• Caring for a relative and avoiding exhaustion

• Understand the conflicting emotions we may experience as a caregiver so we can define our strengths and set our limits in the caring context.

Please send Claire an email to register: cquenville@jhpartners.net

Centre RIRE 2000 is a non-profit organisation whose mission is providing opportunities to newcomers for academic and technological upgrading, socio-professional integration, and intercultural bridging.

Centre RIRE 2000 has a wide variety of services for newcomers, from computer skills (Word, Excel, Acomba, Sage, Autocad, etc.), support and guidance in your academic/professional recognition process, to French courses. We’d like you to explore what Centre RIRE has to offer!

Baby Chat Café is back at the Wellness Centre!

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• You do not have to register to participate and it is free of charge
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Scale available to weigh your baby

Registration required. We have a limited number of spaces for this activity due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.

Join us on November 9 to learn about communicating with your baby through signing.  Our volunteer guest speaker Shelley Dupuis will share her knowledge about how this communication tool can help your little one(s) talk with you through signs!

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Moving to another city, country, or even culture can be exciting and challenging both at the same time! Two social workers from the Jeffery Hale Community Services will walk us through the stages of change as well as advise us what the different coping mechanisms are. Participants will also have the chance to connect with others and broaden their networks.

You will also learn about resources and tools that can help you adapt, such as:

• Language Courses
• Employment counselling
• Vocational training
• Social networks
• VEQ’s Finding Your Niche for Newcomers’ sessions
• Other support organizations

Individually wrapped snacks and drinks will be provided. Also, a participation prize will be raffled among the participants.

***IT IS REQUIRED TO REGISTER*** 

Click here to register.

Join Éducaloi for a look at basic rights and protections for consumers in Quebec.

This workshop will cover the basics of consumer rights in Quebec, including:

• Refunds and Exchanges
• Pricing Errors
• Warranties
• Online Purchases
• Compaints and Other Recourses

Click here to register.

This event was made possible with the financial support of the Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d’expression anglaise

Are you the parent of a child aged 10 and under? Are you concerned about their exposure to screens?  Do you worry about their online safety and how to manage it?  This information session is for you! Learn how you can be pro-active as a parent and set boundaries while also letting your child access technology in a healthy manner.

Please join us on Wednesday, November 10, for an online presentation on cyber safety by Dr. Geneviève Vohl from the Centre Cyber-aide.  Here are some of the topics that Dr. Vohl will cover:

• Safe and healthy use of technology
• Impacts of technology on child development
• Risk and protection factors
• Managing usage time and content
• Dealing with emotions and crises
• An inside look at certain apps
• Traps to avoid
• Dealing with cyberbullying
• Awareness of your own use
• Parental controls

Click here to register and to get the link to be able to access this workshop on Zoom on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Also see our part II in this series for parents of teens!

Learn more about our School Readiness series, where you will also find a link to helpful documents prepared the School Services team of Jeffery Hale Community Services.

Questions?  Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

Parents, are you worried about keeping your pre-teen / teen safe while they browse the internet or use their electronic devices?  Please join us on Thursday, November 11, for an online presentation by Dr. Geneviève Vohl from the Centre Cyber-aide on the impacts of technology and how to use it safely. Here are some of the topics that Dr. Vohl will address:

• Health impacts of technology (physical, psychological, social)
• Risks and protection factors
• Recognizing overuse
• Managing emotions
• Cybercrimes
• Cyberbullying
• Sexting
• What to if there is an incident involving you or a family member
• Tools and references

Both parents and teens welcome! Click here to register and to get the link to be able to access this workshop on Zoom on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Also see part I in this series for parents of younger children!

Learn more about our School Readiness series, where you will also find a link to helpful documents prepared the School Services team of Jeffery Hale Community Services.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

Centre R.I.R.E. offers a lot of services to newcomers, and in several languages, including English. Among their services:

Translation of your cover letters and CV to French, for FREE*

Digital literacy courses (Excel, Sage 50, Acomba, Autocad, Solidwork, Word, etc.)

Specialized services like helping you get your diplomas obtained outside of the country recognized (engineers, they have a partnership with the Fondation de l’Ordre des ingénieurs and they can help you all the way the process)

FREE language courses* (English and French)

And much more!!!  *Upon meeting eligibility criteria

Interested in learning more? Are you looking into getting your studies or experience recognized in QC but don’t know where to start? Then block the date and time in your calendar and join us!

Counting your losses can be a dismal exercise but it doesn’t have to be.

Learn the Grief Recovery Method once, and apply the method throughout a lifetime of loss.

What is the Grief Recovery Method exactly?

• it is a step-by-step action plan that starts with unlearning the conventional thinking about grief and loss and then learning the tools to deal with unfinished business and relearning that fond memories don’t have to lead to a lingering pain.

• it offers an effective way to say “goodbye” in order to lighten up and open to that which appears around the bend of our life’s journey.

• it addresses hearty topics like unmet hopes, dreams and expectations of a future not to be, and the things we wished had been different or better or more

About our Presenter: CMA Medeiros

• Having moved 27 times across 5 countries, she is well tuned to bearing losses of all kinds, including break ups (some happy and some sad) to the death of her dear Mum 5 years ago, and Gramma 4 years ago, and Auntie 3 years ago, all of whom were awesome Quebecoise women of strength and dry wit and deep loyalty to family. My Mom’s death was a huge blow, and I started a whole new search to find relief. I finally came across the Grief Recovery Method, which is simple (not easy) and practical and effective. My life changed for the way better, so I became certified to share this work with you and yours! I teach the Grief Recovery Method online (so you can be based anywhere!) both to individuals and groups.

Join us for the information session on November 16th and decide if you want to take the course.

• Starting November 23rd, Tuesday nights for seven weeks on Zoom, 7pm to 9pm
• There will be a short break during Christmas with sessions resuming on January 11th 2022

To register, send an email to Claire: cquenville@jhpartners.net

Join volunteer hosts Amanda and Polly for an enjoyable in-person evening learning all about soap.  You will even get to make your own “melt and pour” soap to take home!  Polly, master soap maker and small business owner (La Danse des Savons), will explain the what, how and why of cold-process soap.

• There is a $10 fee to cover the cost of the materials for the evening.
• Please note that you will need to show your vaccination passport on site to take part in this event.

Who can attend

This particular event is open to all parents who want to take a night off and leave the kiddos at home! For other events for the whole family, please see the fall EPIQ schedule.

Sign up FAST 

Only 9 parents can register due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.  To register, please pay your $10 as soon as possible.

For more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

Join us and benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information including breastfeeding support.

• Connect with other English-speaking parents
• Support provided by our breastfeeding coach
• Scale available to check baby’s growth
• Everyone is welcome including expectant moms, moms who have breastfed before, those who are breastfeeding now, as well as those who have chosen another feeding option.

Registration required. We have a limited number of spaces for this activity due to space restrictions and social distancing requirements.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

The education system in Quebec is unique in many ways.  Language laws dictate who is eligible to attend school in English and who is not. Parents and newcomers may find it hard to navigate the school system. The session “School Registration and the English School System in Quebec” will feature a panel of professionals from Central Quebec School Board to help answer your questions.

This online event is for you, if you’ve ever wondered:

• Is my child eligible to attend school in English?
• When and how do we register for Kindergarten, elementary school and high school?
• What school(s) can my kids attend based on where I live? If I am willing to drive my kids to school can they attend a school in another sector of town?
• What are the options in terms of preschool, Pre-K, programme passe-partout, and before- and after-school daycare and how do we access them? What are the related costs? And what services are offered in each program?
• Grade names here differ from those elsewhere. What is meant by cycle 1 and 2 and sec. 1, 2, etc. ?
• Is it true parents of elementary students are often required to pay for noon-time surveillance if their children eat lunch at school? If so, how does that work and what does it cost?
• Why do we have to purchase so many supplies each fall for kids attending public school. Doesn’t the school board provide these supplies? Who will give me the list of what materials my child needs and when?
• I live on the south shore; when will there be an English elementary school on my side of the St-Lawrence?
• What is all the fuss about school boards being replaced by service centres? What impact will this have on my child’s education and our local English-speaking community?
• Québec schools seem to put a lot of emphasis on provincial exams; at what grade do these exams start? How does QCSB compare to other local boards in terms of exam results?
• What is the difference between Québec’s adult education and DEP programs and CEGEP? Can we access these programs in English in Québec City? How do we apply? What programs are available and are there any fees for them?

Click here to register and to get the Zoom info to access this session on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Learn more about our School Readiness series, where you will also find a link to helpful documents prepared the School Services team of Jeffery Hale Community Services.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

The Alzheimer’s Society of Quebec will present: How to better understand Alzheimer’s Disease.

Identify the signs and symptoms.

Our presenter Charlie Dorval will be available to answer your questions.

To register please send an email to cquenville@jhpartners.net

***PLEASE  be advised that this presentation has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date. 

VEQ will provide transportation to go to Le Joker Pub Ludique (in Lévis) as well as the cover fee, where we will meet with newcomers from the Chaudière-Appalaches region. There, we will enjoy an evening of board games and networking.

Departure from Québec to Lévis: 1270 chemin Sainte-Foy at 6:30 PM. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before departure time so we can leave on time.

Departure from Lévis to Québec: We will be heading back to our offices in Sainte-Foy at 9:00 PM. Should you choose to stay longer in Lévis, please note that you will need to arrange your own transportation back to Québec City.

VEQ will also subsidize the cover fee to the Joker Pub Ludique for each participant. It is very important that if you have reserved your spot and cannot make it, you let us know ASAP, so we can allocate the resources to another participant.

Meals and drinks are not included.

***LIMITED SPACE, REGISTRATION REQUIRED***

*Vaccination passport required

Buy a Christmas Family Fun Box for your family or gift one to another family while supporting the Community Christmas Hamper Campaign!  Order your box before December 5th.

Thank you for helping EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec City) raise funds for the Hamper Campaign!

Only $20 per Family Fun Box! Order before December 1, then choose your pick-up date on either December 9 or 11.

For details and online ordering, please visit https://wejh.ca/family-fun-boxes

Special Baby Chat on Baby Massage

The Wellness Centre is offering a FREE baby massage workshop for parents with infants aged newborn to nine months (before babies are crawling or walking). Come meet other English-speaking parents and learn how to soothe your baby through massage with massage therapist Chrystine Roy from Zeste Detente.

• This activity will start at 9:30 a.m., which is a 1/2 hour earlier than usual for Baby Chat.
• You must register! Space is limited for this activity due to public health measures. First come, first-served.
• Parking is free for this event.

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

About Baby Chat:

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• Scale available to weigh your baby

To register or for more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Who We Are

Travellin’ Toddler Time (TTT) is free activity in English for children 3 and 4 years old and their parents/ caregivers or grandparents. Participants sing songs, hear stories, make crafts and enjoy a snack.

A New(comers’) Experience—On December 10^th, VEQ is taking you to a Remparts de Québec hockey game. A first for us, and maybe for you as well? Start warming up your throats and practicing your supporting chant for the home team!

To join in the fun:

Registrations are required, and a $5 fee per person will apply.

We will provide:

• Round trip transportation from the Jeffery Hale Pavilion parking lot to Le Centre Videotron
• Access to the Sunwing Lounge at Le Centre Videotron and a  meal: 2 hot dogs, fries, and a soda
• Your ticket to the game!

***LIMITED SPACE, we have 20 tickets***

*Vaccination passport required

The details:

• Meet at the Jeffery Hale Pavilion Parking at 4:45 p.m.
• The bus will leave at 5:00 p.m. sharp
• Eat and chat in the Sunwing Lounge, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
• The game starts at 7 p.m.
• Our bus will leave at 9:30 p.m. to bring us back to the Jeffery Hale Pavilion parking lot. You may take the bus, or choose to opt-out (for example, if the game is not over), in which case your ride back will be your responsibility.

For more information and to register, please contact Maria Castro at newcomers@veq.ca or (418) 683-2366 ext. 225

Join our EPIQ hosts for an Informal Chat Session: Getting Through It Together. 

Getting Through It Together wishes to create a familiar place to allow parents to be heard, feel connected and maybe have a laugh. If you choose, come share what is going on in your life and be a listening ear for someone.  This is a bi-weekly event.

See you then!

Register with Jessica Price at jprice@jhpartners.net to get the ZOOM details.

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre.

Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

Please check out the Family Matters e-newsletter or visit our EPIQ information page for more details.

We’ve been invited to an exclusive guided visit to the exposition “Voisins et voisines d’ailleurs“, where we will meet one of the artists, filmmaker Felippe Martin. After that, we’ll take our time to stroll through the museum’s latest exhibits, Pompeii and Ô Merde.

***EDIT: VEQ will no longer provide transportation to the museum from our offices. ***

Please read the proposed timetable:

12:15 ► Departure from our offices (by bus)   ***NO LONGER AVAILABLE***

12:45 ► Arrival at the Musée de la Civilisation, each participant is responsible for transporting themselves to the museum*.

13:00 – 14:10 ► Guided visit to the exhibit Voisins et voisines d’ailleurs.

14:10 – 14:20 ► Bathroom break

14:20 – 15:45 ► Free visit to Pompeii and Ô Merde exhibits. Participants can stay together as a group or go separately on their own rhythm.

15:45 ► Explore Old Québec on your own or with your new acquaintances! 😀

*costs not covered by VEQ

***Vaccination passport not required***

Pelvic floor health and you…

Join us virtually on January 18 and find out everything you need to know about pelvic floor health with Chantal Couture,  physiotherapist from la Clinique Femina.   Whether you underwent a vaginal birth or cesarean, there is something to learn for everyone.

Important update: With your health and safety at heart, Baby Chat Café will be held virtually until further notice.  It’s still a great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.  All you need to connect is internet access and  a cell phone, tablet, laptop or computer with webcam. If you prefer, you can opt to join by your landline.

Baby Chat Café is…

A great chance to meet and chat with other English-speaking parents of babies under one year of age.

• Guest speakers on subjects of interest to new parents
• Free of charge
• Expectant parents also welcome
• Scale available to weigh your baby (when in-person)

Registration required.  Register in the following ZOOM link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYrde6vpz0oGNe08R51EXXLYwRt-m7ocaZL 

For more details please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

Declutter in 2022 for your health!  Learn strategies to cope with chronic disorganization, hoarding, and downsizing from presenter Kathleen Murphy, a Certified Professional Organizer, Chronic Disorganization Specialist and Hoarding specialist

This presentation will cover what you need to know about chronic disorganization, downsizing, and hoarding. Kathleen will share definitions and misconceptions and real-life stories to show approaches and processes that lead to successful results.

To register, please visit:

https://chssn-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0tdO2vqjwjGNAkp47e5uvfYLs7EqmawPBw

Interested in discussing literature with other book lovers? Missing connecting over books in the Library?

Come join Pixels & Pages, the Morrin Centre’s new online book club!

Next Meeting: Thursday, January 20 at 7:30 p.m. Please email library@morrin.org to learn more or to sign up!

Book Selection for January:

Have you noticed that locals love being outdoors even in the winter?!

You’ve been wanting to try snowshoeing but don’t own a pair?

VEQ in partnership with Accès-Loisirs will take you to the Jacques-Cartier Nat’l Park to enjoy a day of winter fun!

All you need to do is email María Castro (newcomers@veq.ca) and sign up.

We only have 10 snowshoes for adults and a similar amount for children’s sizes. It is thus important that you reserve your spot!

We are providing transportation to the Jacques-Cartier National Park, so if you recently moved to the Greater Québec City region and would like to explore this place and try a new winter sport while making new friends, you only need to sign up!

We will leave from our offices (1270 chemin Sainte-Foy) at 9:00 from where we will head first to Pascal le Boulanger*, a must-stop among hikers heading to the iconic national park. At the bakery, you can get your lunch to go in case you forgot to prepare one or simply indulge with one of their famous pastries. After this quick stop, the bus will take us to the Discovery & Services Centre, situated on km 10 from the park’s entrance.  Once there, you can choose the activities you would like to do, like exploring one of the many trails listed below. Please take into consideration the trail’s length and estimated duration. We will leave the park at 3:00 PM.

Every passenger is expected to follow Public Health’s recommendations regarding the prevention of the coronavirus situation. Please wear a mask at all times during the bus ride.

Click here to see the list of trails open for the season, difficulty, length, type of trail (roundtrip or loop), estimated duration (it all depends on one’s rhythm)

Please remember to follow safety guidelines when going for a hike, like wearing appropriate clothing and shoes, or notifying someone which trail you will explore. You can take a look at this suggested how-to dress checklist. It is also recommended that you download the trail map, you can do so here or on this website. The application AVENZA Maps also allows you to download them for free.

More websites with advice on how to dress and what to bring:

What to wear winter hiking

Snowshoeing Checklist

Snowshoe Gear Checklist

*at your own cost, VEQ will not pay for purchases made here

Please note that this event has been cancelled. 

Join EPIQ host Shelley Dupuis and other families for an afternoon of sliding at Myrand Sliding Centre.   With it’s artificial snow and its nighttime lighting, it is a great place for young and old alike to enjoy sliding on an inner tube.  This sliding centre (see location on Google maps) has six slopes: four easy and two advanced, with lifts for the advanced slopes.

• Public washrooms on site.
• Easily accessible by public transport.
• Please see the website for rules about height and age.

The opening of the facilities depends on the weather conditions!!

Cost:  The information is not yet up on their website for this year, but will posted nearer to the date of our outing. In past years, the cost has been about $5 per person.

Alternate date:  If we need to change the date due to freezing rain or mild weather, the  back up date will be Sunday January 30th at 2:00 p.m.

Who can attend:  This particular event is open to all parents and kiddos!  No registration required, just show up and join the group!

For more details please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

About EPIQ

EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) events are organized by volunteer parents with support from the community Wellness Centre. Some activities are just for parents (who doesn’t love a night out without the kids!) and other events are for the whole family.

For more information, please visit the EPIQ web page. For regular updates about the activities, subscribe to our Family Matters e-newsletter or join the EPIQ Facebook group!

Important update: With your health and safety at heart, Café au lait will be held virtually until further notice.

Join the Café au lait Crew from the comfort of your home via videoconference.  This is a relaxing, embracing space where you can benefit from parent-to-parent contact, encouragement, valuable information and  support from our breastfeeding consultant, Shelley Dupuis.  Everyone is welcome – including expectant moms. If you want to enjoy good company, please

join us online! You don’t have be breastfeeding to participate. Older sibs are welcome as well.

Sessions take place once a month on Tuesdays from 1:30pm.

How to register:

Register here through our Zoom registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrceCpqD0vGdLtsC8u1oYwjk2Q5aOPegGa

For more details, please contact Jessica Price, Family Matters Program Coordinator:  jprice@jhpartners.net

To learn more please visit  https://wejh.ca/programs-and-activities/family-matters/cafe-au-lait-crew/ 

Please join the Québec City Women’s Club for a presentation by Marie-Christine Cadieux (MSc. Université Laval), a research assistant with the Bylot Island long-term ecological monitoring program since 2002. Marie-Christine will present an overview of the research that is being done at the Bylot Island research station and how the team was able to overcome the Nunavut lockdown in 2020 and obtain data from their study site without stepping foot on the island.

Date: Tuesday January 25, 7:00 pm
ZOOM link: https://ulaval.zoom.us/j/68067413077?pwd=dUZSYlpndDBoemMxbDRTc1c1eE9ydz09

For more information, please contact Debbie Stowe (418-844-1840)

Are you a guy raising a child in Quebec City?  We want to know you better!  Please come and talk with us about what you want out of our programming going forward.  We’re looking for dads/step dads of newborns all the way to preteens. Join in and share your insights about how the Wellness Centre could better respond to  your parenting needs in terms of of current services/programs  and in the creation of new ones.  There will be a participation prize!

Get involved and help us make our community stronger!

Click here to register and to get the Zoom info to access this session on your smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop or landline.

Questions? Please contact Jessica Price, our Family Matters program coordinator: jprice@jhpartners.net

Start jotting down your tax-related questions!

This year the information session will be carried out via Microsoft TEAMS.

The session will be held on the Microsoft Teams platform. Participants will only have to use the link below to join. No software installation or license is required.

Microsoft Teams Meeting

Join on your computer, phone, or application

To participate, click here!

Or by phone (with audio only)

+1 437-703-4643,,396689244#   Canada, Toronto

ID Conférence Téléphone: 396 689 244#

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Pour en savoir plus | Options de réunion

Here is an overview of the topics that will be covered:

• Introduction to the Canadian fiscal system
• Residency status for newcomers
• Do you have to file a tax return?
• How to file a tax return
• What documents do you need to file your taxes?
• Marital Status
• Most common tax credits and deductions for newcomers
• Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Newcomers
• Goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit – Newcomers
• Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) – Newcomers
• What should you do to continue receiving your payments?
• Direct Deposit
• Underground economy
• Authorize a representative
• Scams
• Learning about taxes
• Income Tax Assistance – Volunteer Program (ITAVP)
• Online service – My CRA Account