Welcome to Western Nova Scotia: The App Helping Newcomers Feel at Home
Settling into a new community is exciting and full of possibilities, but it can also be challenging when you are trying to find your way around a new place. To make that experience easier, the Western REN and Welcome Platform Tech Technologies launched the “Welcome to Western Nova Scotia” app earlier this year. It continues to grow as a go-to tool for newcomers, helping them feel at home and connected right from day one.
Your Digital Guide to Life in Western Nova Scotia
Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, the “Welcome to Western Nova Scotia” app was the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada. It brings together everything newcomers need in one place: housing, healthcare, childcare, education, and other local services. The app even includes translation support in multiple languages, so users can easily access information while they get comfortable with English or French.
Personalized checklists make it simple to complete important tasks, such as finding a family doctor, registering for school, or connecting with local programs. It also features welcome offers from local businesses that want to help newcomers feel part of the community right away.
Community Collaboration at Work
The app is part of the Western REN’s work through the Local Immigration Partnership (LIP), a network funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The LIP brings local organizations and businesses together to make the region more welcoming for everyone.
Local businesses can join the effort by offering their own welcome deals through the app. Those interested can visit western-ns.welcomeapp.ca and click Contribute to take part.
Part of a National Movement
The project is also part of Welcome Platform’s larger “Welcome Everywhere” movement, which supports newcomers in small and rural communities across Canada. Liwordson Vijayabalan, CEO of Welcome Platform Tech Technologies, says the company is focused on helping regions like Western Nova Scotia thrive.
“This app builds on our mission to support newcomers in smaller communities where they face unique challenges,” he says. “We’re proud to see it making a difference here and look forward to expanding this approach across the country.”
A Warm Welcome Through Technology
The “Welcome to Western Nova Scotia” app is more than just a digital guide. It is a reflection of how local collaboration, innovation, and community spirit can make a real difference for newcomers. By bringing together trusted information, local offers, and essential resources, Western Nova Scotia is showing that smaller communities can lead the way in creating welcoming environments.
The app is available now on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. Businesses interested in joining the welcome movement can visit western-ns.welcomeapp.ca and click Contribute to add their offers.
To learn more about the Western REN and its work supporting regional growth and inclusion, visit westernren.ca.
