The Manitoba government is looking for additional housing for refugees moving here because of conflict in their home countries, including those affected by the crisis in Syria.
“Manitobans have come together to ensure that all refugees making their way to our province feel welcome and are well prepared to start their lives here,” said Housing and Community Development Minister Mohinder Saran. “We continue to seek housing options for these families as a part of our work with local settlement agencies. We’re asking property owners with appropriate options to contact us so we can ensure families are settled and moving forward as soon as possible.”
At this time, median-market to mid-market rate units with three, four or five bedrooms are needed most, both within Winnipeg and in nearby communities outside the city. Houses, apartments and condos are preferred, particularly those available for rent on a long-term basis.
Those with info on available units are encouraged to contact 204-945-6211 or refugeehousing@gov.mb.ca.
When families arrive in Manitoba, they participate in orientation supported by Winnipeg-based settlement agencies which includes securing permanent housing that meets their needs. The province has made 400 rental subsidies available to ensure affordability.
The Manitoba government has stepped up its support for the settlement sector to respond to the increased levels of refugees coming to the province in a number of ways beyond housing including:
- investing $1.6 million to ensure good transitions into the classroom for children of refugee families including a focus on English as an additional language as well as after-school programs to improve integration and school outcomes;
- committing $1.4 million for settlement and integration supports including $200,000 in humanitarian assistance;
- boosting local settlement work through settlement agencies, private sponsorships, health services for refugees, supports for youth and employment; and
- providing funding for a community co-ordinator to support the response.
“We are committed to do what’s necessary to ensure this effort is successful,” said Minister Saran.
