Welcoming Week is an annual opportunity to come together as a community to celebrate newcomers, build connections, and strengthen a welcoming, caring, and affirming St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Part of a broader national and international initiative, Welcoming Week recognizes the contributions of immigrants and newcomers while promoting inclusion, belonging, and stronger communities for all.
Welcoming Week 2026
September 10-19, 2026
The 2026 Welcoming Week theme is ”Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect.”
When we are curious and open to one another, we discover the stories that remind us we are not navigating this moment alone. Welcoming Week is a time to turn those shared stories into action. By listening, learning, and reaching out to others, we show the courage to connect and help create stronger, more welcoming communities.
In St. Thomas and Elgin County, Welcoming Week is a chance to come together and reaffirm our commitment to creating a welcoming, caring, and affirming community for everyone.
Events and Activities
STELIP invites you to celebrate with us:
- September 6-13, City of St. Thomas Lighting of the Jumbo Monument
65 Talbot Street, St. Thomas - September 10, 10:00 am, City of St. Thomas Flag Raising & Proclamation
545 Talbot Street, St. Thomas - September 11, 1:30 – 4:00 pm, Employment Services Elgin Job Search Workshop
400 Talbot Street, St. Thomas - September 12, 10:30 – 11:30 am, St. Thomas Public Library Bilingual Storytime in Punjabi
153 Curtis Street, St. Thomas - September 22, 10:00 am, Elgin County Flag Raising, Proclamation & Tour
450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas - September 22, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Ignite Youth Centre Tasty Tuesday (International Street Food)
745 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
Additional Welcoming Week activities may be announced as event details are finalized.
Stay Connected
Follow STELIP for updates, event announcements, and community stories:
Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn
Get Involved
Welcoming Week is a collaborative effort, and there are many ways to participate:
- Attend community events and activities
- Partner as a host organization
- Share your stories, ideas, and feedback
- Help create welcoming spaces in your workplace, school, and community
- Collaborate with STELIP on Welcoming Week initiatives
We welcome opportunities to work with community partners on Welcoming Week activities. If your organization is planning an event or initiative, please contact us at stelip@ywcaste.ca.