Learning French can be a helpful way to connect with Canada’s bilingual culture. It can also support your confidence when accessing services, exploring work or school opportunities, and connecting with more communities across Ontario. If you are thinking about learning French but are not sure where to start, this guide can help. We gathered some free and low-cost options in Toronto and the GTA, including adult education programs, online classes, library resources, and self-study tools. Program availability, fees, and eligibility may change, so we encourage you to check directly with each organization before registering. Start with a language assessment A language assessment is often the first step before joining government-funded language classes. An assessment can help you understand your current language level and connect you with classes that fit your needs. Some programs may require this before you register. In Toronto and the GTA, organizations such as the YMCA of Greater Toronto and Achēv provide language assessment and referral services for eligible learners. They can help connect you to available English or French classes in your area. This is a helpful place to start if you are not sure which class or level is right for you. Free French classes for eligible adults The Government of Canada funds language classes for eligible permanent residents and protected persons. These include Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada, also known as LINC, and Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada, also known as CLIC. CLIC is the French-language version of the program. Eligibility may depend on your immigration status and other program requirements, so it is best to check before applying. French as a Second Language through adult education Adult education programs can also be a good option if you want structured classes. The Toronto Catholic District School Board offers French as a Second Language courses for eligible adults aged 18 and older whose first language is not English or French. These classes may be helpful for beginners or adults who want to continue improving their French in a more formal learning setting. If you are interested in this option, check the current schedule, class format, and eligibility requirements before registering. Online French classes If attending in person is difficult, online learning may be a better fit. CLIC en ligne offers online French courses for eligible immigrants in Canada. This can be helpful for learners who need more flexibility because of work, family responsibilities, transportation, or other personal schedules. Online learning may also be a good way to build confidence before joining in-person classes or conversation groups. Learn French through low-cost or paid classes in Toronto If you are not eligible for free programs or if you prefer a different learning style, there are also paid and low-cost options in Toronto and the GTA. TDSB Learn4Life may offer French classes for adults as part of its general interest courses. Course options, schedules, and fees can change by season, so it is best to check the current program guide. Alliance Française Toronto also offers French classes for different ages and levels. This is usually a paid option, but it may be helpful for learners who want structured lessons and different course levels. Free French resources at Toronto Public Library Your local library can be a great place to begin, especially if you want to learn at your own pace. Toronto Public Library offers French learning resources for children, teens, and adults. This may include textbooks, study guides, books, audio materials, and online tools. Some library branches may also offer French conversation circles or language-related programs. These can be helpful if you want to practise speaking in a friendly and informal setting. You can visit the Toronto Public Library website or ask staff at your local branch to help you find French learning materials. Free apps and online tools You do not have to wait for a class to start learning. You can begin with small daily habits, even 10 to 15 minutes a day. Mauril is a free app developed by CBC/Radio-Canada. It helps learners practise French and English using videos and audio from Canadian content. This can be useful if you want to improve your listening skills and learn at your own pace. The Language Portal of Canada also offers free tools, quizzes, and language resources to support learning in English and French. These tools are a good way to practise between classes or slowly build your confidence at home. Looking for French-speaking community support? Learning French is not only about grammar and vocabulary. It can also help you connect with Francophone communities and services in Toronto and the GTA. There are French-speaking organizations that provide settlement support, employment services, community programs, referrals, and other resources. If you are looking for French-speaking community organizations, you can also read our related guide: Francophone Communities in Toronto and the GTA Final thoughts Learning French takes time, and it is okay to start small. You can begin by learning common greetings, listening to French audio, borrowing books from the library, using a free app, or joining a beginner class. Every small step can help you build confidence and feel more connected to Canada’s bilingual culture and community life. If you need help finding community resources, Kababayan Multicultural Centre can help guide you and connect you with available supports.

Toronto, Canada. —Kababayan Multicultural Centre is honoured to receive the Best Website Award at the 2025 Migration Advocacy and Media Awards, presented by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. The awarding ceremony was held on December 11, 2025, at the Quest Plus Conference Center in Alabang, Philippines, as part of the Month of Overseas Filipinos celebration. The Migration Advocacy and Media Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and media works that help share the stories, experiences, and contributions of Filipinos around the world. For KMC, this award is a meaningful recognition of our work to create an online space where community members can easily find support, access services, and stay connected. A Website Built to Support the Community KMC’s website was created to do more than share information. It was built as a digital space where community members can find practical resources, learn about free programs, register for events, and connect with support. The relaunch and improvement of our website was made possible with the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Through this support, KMC was able to strengthen its digital presence and create a more accessible online space for clients, community members, partners, and supporters. When KMC relaunched its website, the goal was to make it easier for people to find the help they need. The website supports different members of the community, including caregivers, international students, temporary foreign workers, youth, seniors, families, and community members accessing settlement services. KMC’s website was relaunched to help community members find services, programs, events, and support more easily. More Than a Website: A Space for Stories and Advocacy As shared in the acceptance speech by Rizza Solis, Executive Director of Kababayan Multicultural Centre, and Kathleen Clarete, website designer and digital marketing specialist, the website was designed to be accessible, responsive, and rooted in the real needs of the community. It also serves as a space for advocacy and storytelling by highlighting the voices, journeys, and experiences of Filipino migrants. Through the website, KMC continues to share stories that reflect the strength, leadership, and community spirit of Filipino migrants and other community members in Canada. By making information easier to access, the website helps people feel more guided as they navigate services, programs, and resources that can support their settlement journey. Rizza Solis, Executive Director of KMC, and Kathleen Clarete, website designer and digital marketing specialist, shared KMC’s acceptance message for the Best Website Award. Celebrating the People Behind the Work This award is also a reflection of the people behind the website and the work of KMC. We are grateful to our staff, volunteers, partners, and community members whose contributions and stories continue to shape the work we do. Most importantly, we dedicate this award to the community we serve every day. Your stories, courage, and experiences remind us why accessible digital spaces matter. Representing KMC in the Philippines Although KMC’s Executive Director, Rizza Solis, and website designer and digital marketing specialist, Kathleen Clarete, were unable to attend the ceremony in person, Jay Mangubat represented Kababayan Multicultural Centre at the awarding ceremony in the Philippines and accepted the award on behalf of the organization. Jay Mangubat accepts the Best Website Award on behalf of Kababayan Multicultural Centre. Jay Mangubat represents Kababayan Multicultural Centre at the 2025 Migration Advocacy and Media Awards in the Philippines. Thank You to Our Community and Supporters Kababayan Multicultural Centre extends its sincere appreciation to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas for this meaningful recognition and for celebrating media and advocacy work that uplifts migrant stories. We also thank the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Government of Ontario for supporting the development of our website and helping us improve how we connect with the community online. This award encourages us to keep improving our digital platforms so more people can find support, access services, and stay connected.

It’s that time of the year again, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to spread the holiday cheer and partner again with Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund —an initiative that started in 1906, aiming to provide gift boxes for children from financially vulnerable families across the Greater Toronto Area. These gifts bring joy, comfort, and a sense of celebration to families during one of the most meaningful times of the year.  Through this partnership, we were able to share gift boxes with 296 children from 176 immigrant families in our community, ensuring that children can feel the magic of the season no matter what challenges their families might be facing.    Why This Partnership Matters  At Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC), supporting immigrants, no matter who they are and in any way we can, is truly the heart of what we do. The holiday season can be overwhelming emotionally, socially, and even financially for immigrant families.  The Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund allows us to extend our support in ways that are beyond our services and programs. This initiative helps lighten the load parents feel by giving their children a moment of excitement and belonging. This creates special memories, sparks joy, and reminds families that there is a community here for them.  Children ages 0-12 years old from countries like Mexico, the Philippines, Colombia, Venezuela, Nigeria, and China received a gift box packed with love and age-appropriate gifts, including a warm hat and mittens, a hoodie, socks, a book, a toy, a treat, a toothbrush, and toothpaste.     Celebrating Moments of Joy  We received heartfelt messages from both the children and parents, showing their true joy as they received their gifts. Here are a few of these messages along with photos that will truly warm your hearts.    "I wanted to write to thank the entire Kababayan Spanish team for helping us register so my little one could receive this beautiful gift. We loved every single one. Thank you so much for your generosity, and may God continue to bless everyone in the organization! Thank you very much from Samuel and Ingrid. Merry Christmas!" "Quería escribirle para agradecerles a todo el equipo de Kababayan en español por ayudarnos con el registro para que mi pequeño reciba este hermoso detalle, nos encanto cada uno de los obsequios. Muchas gracias por su generosidad y Dios los siga bendiciendo a todos los de la organización! Muchas gracias de parte de Samuel e Ingrid.   Feliz Navidad!  "   — Ingrid & Samuel "I'd like to thank you for the Santa Claus box that my baby received. She was very excited when we opened it. It was her first gift from Santa this year. ✨ I feel so grateful to you!" "Quería agradecer por la caja de santa Claus que recibió mi bebé, ella estaba muy emocionada cuando la abrimos, también fue su primer regalo de santa de este año ✨   Me siento muy agradecida con ustedes!  "   "We are so happy to have received the boxes this year. Thank you so much for this wonderful and noble work, and especially for the generosity of those who donate and bring so much joy to our homes. May God bless you abundantly! Merry Christmas!!" "Estamos contentos de haber recibido las cajitas este año. Muchas gracias por esta noble y gran labor y sobre todo por la generosidad de aquellas personas que donan y entregan mucha alegría en nuestros hogares. Que Dios les bendiga grandemente! Feliz navidad!! " — Itzel   "Thank you so much. God bless you and all the volunteers and organizers. Merry Christmas!" "Muchas gracias. Dios la bendiga a usted y todos los voluntarios e organizadores. Feliz navidad! " — Nicol   Thank You, Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund  As we wrap up the year, we are reminded of the power of community and what happens when people come together to uplift one another.  We want to extend our deepest thanks once again to the Toronto Star for their generosity and for trusting KMC to be part of this initiative. Together, we were able to deliver hope, warmth, and holiday cheer to families in our community, one gift box at a time. Here’s to sharing more joy in the year ahead!    If you’re interested in supporting families in programs like this, there are many ways to get involved:  Volunteer with KMC Donate to our programs Stay connected through our newsletter Share our mission with your network  You may also head on to the Toronto Star to donate directly to the Santa Claus Fund.

Community Event Photos Kababayan in Action Migrant Workers Day Celebration June 28, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery ZUMBAthon: Dance for A Cause June 13, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Mother's & Father's Day Celebration June 6, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Understanding Your Pension in Canada for Seniors Info Session June 1, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Mother's Day Celebration at Queen May 30, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Toronto Newcomer Day May 29, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Navigational Support Forum for PSWs, Caregivers and IENs May 23, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Ottawa Trip - KMC Women's Group May 16, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Scarborough Career Fair May 7, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Discover the Power of Planning and Chair Exercise May 2, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Caregiving Info Session & Seniors' Zumba at Queen April 18, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Fair at Parkdale Hall March 31, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Trip to the ROM with Francis Libermann School March 31, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Free Income Tax Clinic at Queen St. W March 28, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth CPR Level C & First Aid Training March 28, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery North York Seniors' Year-End Party March 27, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Strength in Skill. Power in Diversity: Panel Discussion, Mentoring and Networking March 21, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Trip at Blue Mountain March 21, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Little Manila Walking Tour - Seniors and Youth March 20, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Workshop: Safer Substance Use & Naloxone Training March 17, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Training: Burn First Response & Dressing Class March 16, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Little Manila Walking Tour - Northview Heights Secondary School March 13, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Trip - Legislative Assembly of Ontario March 7, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors Valentines Day Disco Party February 21, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Valentine's Day Celebration February 14, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors Valentine's Day Party at the Hub February 13, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Digital Literacy for Seniors February 10, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Vibe & Thrive: Youth Event January 31, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Navigating Healthcare in Canada January 24, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Digital Literacy Skills for Seniors January 20, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Christmas Party at Queen St. W December 27, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Women's Masquerade Party December 20, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Newcomer Youth Holiday Party December 13, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Christmas Party at the Hub! December 13, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Food Handler Certification Training December 6, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Royal Ontario Museum Trip with JCM Students December 3, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Paskuhan Village at Parkdale November 8, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Pumpkin Carving October 31, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Women's Halloween Party October 25, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Little Manila Walking Tour October 18, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Last Will and Testament Info Session and Zumba October 14, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Women's Village at Black Creek Tour October 11, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery KMC Staff Team Building October 10, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Arts and Crafts October 8, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Apple Picking September 27, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery 48th Annual General Meeting September 20, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Community Screening September 5, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Community Dialogue August 28, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Mabuhay Festival August 24, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Trip To Niagara 2025 August 23, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery CPR and First Aid Training for Youth August 16, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Women's Picnic at Earl Bales Park August 16, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Zumba Session August 15, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Hepa C Info Session and Zumba August 9, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Trip to ROM August 7, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery KMC Seniors Group Toronto Island Trip July 22, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Women's Self-Care Session & Royal Ontario Museum Tour July 12, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Youth Summer Transition July 8, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Newcomer Youth Summer BBQ Party July 4, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Career Panel and Networking with CIBC June 28, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery Digital Literacy for Seniors June 13, 2025 View on Facebook View Gallery 47th Annual General Meeting September 21, 2024 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Apple Picking September 7, 2024 View on Facebook View Gallery Seniors' Trip To Niagara August 10, 2024 View on Facebook View Gallery Get Involved Make a difference in the lives of newcomers by donating, volunteering, or joining our team. Your support helps us provide vital programs and services to those in need. Whether you have time, skills, or resources to offer, there are many ways to contribute. Find out how you can play a role in empowering immigrants and building a stronger community. Together, we can create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Volunteer Now

Snapshots from Community Events Recent Highlights Caregiving Info Session & Seniors' Zumba at Queen April 18, 2026 View on Facebook View Gallery Free Income Tax Clinic at Queen St. W March 28, 2026 View on Facebook Youth CPR Level C & First Aid Training March 28, 2026 View on Facebook North York Seniors' Year-End Party March 27, 2026 View on Facebook Strength in Skill. Power in Diversity: Panel Discussion, Mentoring and Networking March 21, 2026 View on Facebook Seniors' Fair at Parkdale Hall March 31, 2026 View on Facebook Little Manila Walking Tour - Seniors and Youth March 20, 2026 View on Facebook Youth Workshop: Safer Substance Use & Naloxone Training March 17, 2026 View on Facebook Little Manila Walking Tour - Northview Heights Secondary School March 13, 2026 View on Facebook I recommend Kababayan Multicultural Centre. All counsellors are nice, approachable, and very accommodating. They are very patient to do all the papers that I needed. They also helped me learn many things. Thank you Kababayan Multicultural Centre. Angelita Cordes Seniors' Member Seniors' Trip at Blue Mountain March 21, 2026 View on Facebook View More Albums Get Involved Make a difference in the lives of newcomers by donating, volunteering, or joining our team. Your support helps us provide vital programs and services to those in need. Whether you have time, skills, or resources to offer, there are many ways to contribute. Find out how you can play a role in empowering immigrants and building a stronger community. Together, we can create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Volunteer Now

Events, Workshops, and Info Sessions What's Next in the Community MENU All Upcoming Events Event Calendar Settlement Events Employment Events Youth Events Seniors' Events Women's Events Community Partners' Events Menu Close Events from other organizations you might want to check out. Community Partner Events From free info sessions to conferences, here’s a list of upcoming events hosted by our trusted community partners. Parent-Child Mother Goose Program Parent-Child Mother Goose Program A free weekly program for parents and caregivers to connect with their children through songs, rhymes, and stories while meeting other families in the community. Running Tuesdays from September 22 to December 1, the program includes healthy snacks and TTC tickets, with no restrictions based on immigration status. Get Event Details TMU & The Image Centre Youth in Focus Photo–Walk: Street Photography & Visual Storytelling (Register by September 20) September 26, 2026 A free, three-hour workshop for GTA youth ages 13–29 to explore street photography and visual storytelling through a guided photo-walk from The Image Centre at TMU to Toronto’s waterfront. No prior photography experience is required; cameras and PRESTO fare will be provided, and participants will receive a $50 honorarium. Get Event Details MENU All Upcoming Events Event Calendar Settlement Events Employment Events Youth Events Seniors' Events Women's Events Community Partners' Events Menu Close Events from other organizations you might want to check out. Community Partner Events From free info sessions to conferences, here’s a list of upcoming events hosted by our trusted community partners. Parent-Child Mother Goose Program | Parent-Child Mother Goose Program A free weekly program for parents and caregivers to connect with their children through songs, rhymes, and stories while meeting other families in the community. Running Tuesdays from September 22 to December 1, the program includes healthy snacks and TTC tickets, with no restrictions based on immigration status. Get Event Details Youth in Focus Photo–Walk: Street Photography & Visual Storytelling (Register by September 20) September 26, 2026 | TMU & The Image Centre A free, three-hour workshop for GTA youth ages 13–29 to explore street photography and visual storytelling through a guided photo-walk from The Image Centre at TMU to Toronto’s waterfront. No prior photography experience is required; cameras and PRESTO fare will be provided, and participants will receive a $50 honorarium. Get Event Details Want to Get Involved with Kababayan? Help us provide crucial support for immigrants and newcomers. Make a difference in the lives of newcomers by donating, volunteering, or joining our team. Your support helps us provide vital programs and services to those in need. Whether you have time, skills, or resources to offer, there are many ways to contribute. Get Involved Submit Your Organization’s Event Are you hosting an event that supports immigrants or newcomers in Canada? Send us the details so we can post it on this page, and add it to our newsletter. We’d love to help spread the word! Before submitting, please note that we only feature one-time events such as: Workshops Information sessions Conferences Webinars We do not accept ongoing programs or continuous-intake services at this time. If your event fits the criteria, submit the details through the form below. Our team will be reviewing your event before publishing it on our website. Submit an Event