Last updated: October 30, 2024

Below is a list of resources and information which can assist organizations and community helpers in providing support to refugee claimants in Manitoba.

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.
  

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 Winnipeg
In 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.

CMWI is also accepting donations from the public to support refugee claimants.

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.

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.