Last updated: January 29, 2025
Below is a list of resources and information which can assist organizations and community helpers in providing support to refugee claimants in Manitoba.
General Information from IRCC for Refugee Claimants
IRCC has compiled key information for refugee claimants in one website. The information is available in 14 languages and can also be downloaded in a resource sheet format.
Multilingual Brochure: Support for Refugee Claimants in Manitoba
This brochure is designed to be printed by shelters and others who are meeting refugee claimants in their first days in Canada, and handed directly to the claimant. It lists the key resources and connections they will need to start their journey of resettlement in Canada.
English | French | Spanish | Arabic
Whatsapp Group for Refugee Claimants
Service providers in Winnipeg have created a Whatsapp group where claimants and service providers can post resources relevant to claimants. View and share the QR Code Poster here.
Resource Guide: Services & Supports for Refugee Claimants in Winnipeg
Most often, community members, friends and faith communities play the most significant role in supporting refugee claimants in the community, and this resource guide may assist them in navigating services.
Printable Infosheets
MANSO Member Services for Newcomers with Temporary Immigration Status
MANSO has 70+ member organizations across Manitoba that provide a range of settlement and integration services to newcomers. Many of these services are federally funded and eligibility is limited to permanent residents; however, some organizations have funding for services or programs to serve newcomers with temporary immigration status, including refugee claimants. This guide identifies agencies where refugee claimants can access a range of settlement services across the province.
Refugee Claimant Information Hub
Monday, Thursday & Friday mornings at 180 Henry St. in WinnipegIn partnership with the Salvation Army Centre of Hope and MANSO, a number of newcomer serving organizations are operating a Refugee Claimant Information Hub, in order to bring more settlement supports and services to refugee claimants, many of whom are staying in local shelters. All refugee claimants are able to access the Info Hub on a walk-in basis, no registration is required. Please see the following posters for more information.
English | French | Spanish | Arabic
English Conversation Circles: English
Donation Centre
Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute is collecting and distributing donations to refugee claimants in Winnipeg. Available items include clothing, household items, prayer mats, and more. CMWI also offers a food bank, which can accomodate requests for halal foods.
Clients can visit CMWI to access the donation centre during their regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm), or call (204) 943-8539 for more information.
Language Programming
Refugee Claimants are not eligible for IRCC funded language services, but can access conversation circles and informal language programs, which do not require a WELARC referral. Check the MANSO Informal Language Resource Guide for the latest program information.
Free virtual learning resources
Healthcare Coverage
Before they recieve their work permit, Refugee Claimants are not eligible for Manitoba Health, but may be eligible for the Interim Federal Health Program. Please see this page for more information.
After a Refugee Claimant recieves a work permit (with length of over 12 months), they are eligible to apply for Manitoba Health.
Health Information Sheet for Refugee Claimants
CCR Resources
Refugee Determination System: A Practical Guide is intended for front line workers who support refugee claimants and other vulnerable migrants. The guide was recently updated in December 2023.
Information on making a refugee claim in Canada for people entering from the USA outlines the latest changes to the Safe Third Country Agreement.
Kinbrace Resources
My Refugee Claim is an online guide for people making refugee claims in Canada. My Refugee Claim helps claimants:
- learn about Canada’s refugee protection process
- stay connected to people who can help
- be prepared every step of the way
View the website in French or English.
Orientation Booklet: This illustrated booklet provides an easy-to-read overview of the refugee protection process in Canada. Designed to help claimants stay organized, it includes checklists, helpful links and other key information.
Ready Tours are free, virtual workshops where refugee claimants prepare for their refugee hearings and learn about the refugee appeal process. Attend a Ready Tour to learn about the refugee hearing and appeal processes from someone who works at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB). Service providers are also welcome to attend and learn more about the IRB and its processes. Interpretation is provided. Please indicate language required.
Canada – US Border Rights Clinic
The Canada – US Border Rights Clinic is a free legal clinic that provides help to people seeking safety at the Canada-US Border. They offer information and summary legal advice to migrants and their advocates. All services are provided by phone and video. View their website here.
Referral Guide: Key information about how to refer clients to the Clinic.
Closing US Immigration Proceedings: A resource guide outlining steps to take to try to close US immigration proceedings after an arrival in Canada.
Refugee Family Reunification Project
The Refugee Family Reunification Project is designed to address the gaps related to family reunification for refugees, particularly in the areas of practical support and advocacy. Visit their website here.
Resources on One Year Window applications, Protected Person permanent residence applications, parental consent, and more are available here.
