RUNS NOW THROUGH AUGUST 2026
Empowering Refugees through housing, skills training and employment to build secure, independent futures rooted in dignity and opportunity.
RUNS NOW THROUGH AUGUST 2026
Empowering Refugees through housing, skills training and employment to build secure, independent futures rooted in dignity and opportunity.
Program Overview
Ready to Rise, powered by Dream Legacy Foundation (DLF), is a free support program that helps refugees secure safe, permanent housing and gainful employment to build strong, independent futures.
Ready to Rise removes the barriers that keep many newcomers stuck in shelters or unstable work by combining housing, training, job support, and financial tools, all designed to help refugees truly rise.
Why this Program Matters
Too many refugees in the GTA face unaffordable rents, long waitlists for stable housing, and limited chances to gain good Canadian work experience. Many end up in overcrowded shelters or unsuitable apartments with no clear way forward. Ready to Rise changes that by connecting safe housing with the training and support needed to build a lasting future.
This is more than just a housing program; it’s a journey toward independence, stability, and self-sufficiency.
Potential Program Pathways Designed for your Unique Support Level
Dream Legacy Foundation’s Ready to Rise Program helps refugees and newcomers (ages 23+) find permanent employment and secure housing — whether you need one, the other, or both. We meet you where you are and support you every step of the way. Everyone’s journey is different.
PARTNERED WITH WOVEO
Financial Literacy & Credit Building
Build your financial confidence through workshops and credit-building tools, delivered in partnership with Woveo. We’ll help you understand credit, budgeting, and saving so you can plan for your future with peace of mind.
JOB READINESS
Self-Paced Online Courses
Boost your job readiness with our self-paced online courses in Resume Building, LinkedIn Optimization, and Interview Preparation. Learn how to craft a standout resume, build a professional LinkedIn profile that gets noticed, and prepare for interviews with confidence — all at your own pace, from anywhere. Each course is designed to give you practical tools and real-world strategies to help you stand out and succeed in your job search.
Does this sound like you?
Verified refugee status
Resides 2.5 hours of GTA
Refugee aged 23+
English level CLB 5 or higher
We can help – you may be eligible to participate in the Ready to Rise Program! apply below to check your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ready to Rise Program?
Ready to Rise is a practical program run by Dream Legacy Foundation (DLF) to help refugees find safe, stable housing and secure gainful employment. It combines housing, skills training, job readiness, and financial supports to help refugees build strong, independent futures.
Who can apply?
To apply, you must:
✅ Be a refugee, age 23 or older
✅ Live within 2.5 hours of the GTA
✅ Have a minimum CLB 54+ English level
✅ Have verified refugee status and be legally allowed to work in Canada
✅ Be open to training and housing support
✅ Be living independently (no spouse or dependents) and in unstable or temporary housing
What makes this program different?
Unlike other services, Ready to Rise connects transitional housing with skills training, employment support, and credit building — all in one supportive journey. It’s not just a shelter or job service — it’s a clear path to a better future.
Do I have to pay anything to join?
No. If you are accepted into the program, it is free of charge to you.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
