Mother and daughter smiling

Empowering women to navigate life in Canada

Welcome to PIRS

Since 1975, the Pacific Immigrant Resources Society (PIRS) provides unique and essential programming for newcomer women and their young children. We are more than just an immigrant and refugee services agency. We are a supportive community dedicated to empowering women to rise out of isolation and build a vibrant and fulfilling life in Canada.

Responding to Global Crisis

Our community is deeply concerned by the growing humanitarian crisis caused by the invasion of Ukraine. British Columbia is expected to receive approximately 17 to 20 percent of the 106,000 Ukrainians headed to Canada – that is just over 21,000 people – mostly women and children. Many of them have limited access to resources and suffer from trauma. They need our help! We have established the Ukraine Crisis Fund, and invite you to join us in solidarity with those who have been displaced due to the invasion of Ukraine. Join us as we help Ukrainian women and children find community in Canada. 

Two women conversing

Get Support

One-on-One Support

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Adapt to Life in Canada

Kids Have Stress Too

Female early childhood educator with children

Get Training & Build Leadership

Pathways to Childcare Careers

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What We Do

We help immigrant and refugee women take charge of their lives

PIRS supports immigrant and refugee women and children to become active participants in Canadian society. We have programs that help women improve their English, gain knowledge and skills needed to thrive, and guide them to become leaders in our community.

Group of women sitting on a couch
Mom holding a child, smiling

“I appreciate you all in PIRS highly for your support, encouragement and assistance in all things! Today was my first day of my first job in BC, Canada! … I definitely recommend others to join at PIRS as it is a valuable and prestigious organisation and was strongly helpful for me! My PIRS certificates shine in my resume!”

– Childcare Leadership Group Program participant

WHO WE ARE

We are a women-led non-profit working with the community to break barriers

PIRS is driven by a community of compassionate women of diverse views and backgrounds. Together, we bring new, innovative ways to respond to community needs.

Two women of diverse backgrounds laughing
Friends hugging

Let us support you as you build a vibrant and fulfilling life in Canada.