Delta Local Immigration Partnership launches to help promote inclusion and social wellbeing for Delta’s diverse population
On the ancestral, traditional and unceded territories of the sc̓əwaθən məsteyəxʷ (Tsawwassen), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) and other Coast Salish Peoples, DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society is pleased to announce the launch of the Delta Local Immigration Partnership (LIP).
Delta is growing and changing, becoming a more diverse community with the majority of population growth coming from immigration. The City of Delta’s total immigrant population makes up 33.1 per cent, or 35,560 out of 107, 270 residents (Census 2021). It is the seventh largest city in the Greater Vancouver Region by total population and the sixth largest by immigrant population.
Along with these numbers, the community’s social and economic needs are evolving. The Delta LIP will serve as a place for community-serving organizations, immigrant settlement agencies, municipal organizations and local businesses to connect and collaborate at one table to advance priorities for a thriving community.
Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, there are LIPs in communities across Canada, which are convened by local organizations and municipalities. DIVERSEcity has been the convener of the Surrey LIP since 2020 and has been successful in capacity building and knowledge sharing throughout the province through the collaborative BC-Yukon LIP/RIF Network.
“I am thrilled to serve as co-chair the Delta Local Immigration Partnership,” says Neelam Sahota, Chief Executive Officer, DIVERSEcity. “Delta is a dynamic, growing city with stunning natural beauty, a diversified business scene and a family-focused community. A dedicated LIP is an important way to advance equity and improve the social wellbeing for newcomers and all Delta residents. I look forward to working with the Delta LIP council members, including the City of Delta, to help build a healthy community, together.”
“Delta is the city I call home, so it is a privilege to help lead the Delta LIP, making the city better for newcomers, immigrants, refugees and all citizens,” says Angela Sheenmar, Manager, Delta LIP. “I am excited to see the positive social impact the work of the Delta LIP will have on the community.”
A Delta LIP website with more information will be launched in June 2025 at deltalip.ca.
Interested in getting involved or learning more? Email deltalip@dcrs.ca.