INTERCEDE for the Rights of Domestic Workers, Caregivers and Newcomers is a non-profit community-based organization. Its mandate is to support integration, provide service needs and promote the rights of domestic workers, caregivers, temporary or migrant workers, their families and other newcomers. It was established in 1979 and incorporated in Ontario in 1984 when it opened a client-service office in Toronto.

INTERCEDE provides newcomer integration and settlement services including orientation, information and counseling on the Live-in Caregiver Program and on various other immigration matters. It is funded by Canada Immigration and Citizenship Immigrant Settlement and Adaptation Program (CIC-ISAP). It also provides training in job search skills and strategies for newcomers through free Job Search Workshops (JSW) which are also funded by CIC-ISAP. INTERCEDE also offers leadership and advocacy training which include assertiveness and communication skills, among others. Monthly educational meetings are held dealing with immigration, employment and various other issues such as wellness, migrant rights, racism, homophobia and violence against women.

Opportunities to train and upgrade in First Aid-CPR, childcare and elder care are offered from time to time. In the area of policy development and intervention within all levels of government, INTERCEDE seeks to improve government laws and policies that affect its clients and members.

Activities related to community development and support programs are funded through the City of Toronto’s Community Services Program (CSP). INTERCEDE received funding from the Ministry of the Attorney General for education, advocacy and leadership training and organized the 8th INTERCEDE Domestic Worker’s Conference.