On Monday evening (October 7), the Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee is hosting their bi-annual 'Newcomers to Cochrane Night' at the Cochrane Public Library. 

Fleeha Ahmad, Co-Chair of Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee shares more and more attendees have come out to the gatherings over the past six/seven years of them hosting the event. Averaging around 50 to 60 people at each event, Ahmad says the evening is valuable and welcoming to those that are new to the area. "It is for families and individuals who recently arrived in Alberta, especially, to Cochrane from other provinces in Canada or other countries. It is a nice way to get to know the resources available and the community members; it is a connecting night."

Besides the evening being inclusive to all; a top highlight for many is learning about our community's valuable resources and services. "It is why we are continuous at hosting these twice a year because it is a very highly attended, nice event and both service providers and newcomers love to participate in it. We have the same providers participate, but the positive thing is we are always getting additional new ones."

The drop-in evening's held in October and February also feature snacks, refreshments, door prizes, and even childcare for those in need. "The weather has to be really, really ruthless for people to not come out, so that is the plus point. People will still make the effort to come out. The other plus, is we do have volunteers to take care of little kids so that helps families with small children. Come out, walk around, get some information, there are door prizes and finger food available. It's a great little warm gathering to welcome and connect with each other. Cochrane is such a beautiful community that supports all events."

Newcomers to Cochrane Night will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cochrane Public Library located at 405 Railway Street West.