Claresholm, Alberta

We recently wrote about the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, (RNIP) an exciting new federal immigration program aimed at attracting new immigrants to rural and northern communities in Canada. This five-year initiative will help match employers who are experiencing an acute labour shortage with skilled foreign workers.  One of the 11 communities that has been chosen is Claresholm, Alberta.

Here are 4 things to know about living in Claresholm, Alberta: 

1) Location:  The town is uniquely situated on Highway 2, 80 kilometres from Lethbridge to the southeast and an hour away from Calgary to the north. With a population of approximately 3,700, the town is an attractive community for both industrial and commercial operations as well as travel and tourism.

2) Industry Sectors: Primary industries in the town are manufacturing, agriculture and tourism, supported by a strong presence in the public administration, service, utilities, retail and transportation sectors. Ease of access to key urban centres has contributed to local growth in the transportation and food processing industries.

3) Healthcare: In Canada, public health insurance is available to all eligible residents including Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Alberta has a publicly administered and funded health care system that guarantees Albertans receive universal access to medically necessary hospital and health care services.

4) Education: 
Claresholm is home to quality public elementary and secondary schools. Notable post-secondary institutions include the University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), Lethbridge College and the University of Alberta in Edmonton. There are also numerous other options for post-secondary education located in Calgary, Lethbridge and Edmonton.