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Manitoba Government Announces Grants for Ethnocultural Organizations to Support Diversity, Multiculturalism

Ethnocultural organizations that support youth and cultural celebrations, and language and heritage retention are just a few that have received financial support under a program that supports multiculturalism, Multiculturalism and Literacy Minister Flor Marcelino announced today.

“Manitoba has always been a multicultural society and diversity is a fundamental characteristic of our province,” said Minister Marcelino.  “By supporting ethnocultural organizations to develop the inter-cultural and inter-faith dialogue that builds bridges among communities, these grants enhance our province’s rich cultural diversity, which is a source of pride for us all.”

The minister said the Manitoba government is investing $200,000 for 31 organizations as part of the Ethnocultural Community Support Program (ECSP), to:

• preserve, enhance and promote Manitoba’s rich and diverse cultural heritage; and
• encourage the development of partnerships between cultural communities to foster inter-cultural understanding, harmony and equality.

“We are pleased the Manitoba government continues to support the multicultural community in our province through streams like the Ethnocultural Community Support Program,” said Oksana Bondarchuk, president, Manitoba provincial council, Ukrainian Canadian Congress.  “This kind of financial assistance is essential for multicultural communities to thrive and it’s encouraging to know the province supports cultural development within our community, while strengthening multiculturalism in Manitoba.”

Since 2001, the ECSP has provided 1,225 grants totaling $6.7 million to more than 219 organizations.  The grant supports the province’s growing through immigration strategy by helping create the inclusive society that allows Manitoba to be an attractive destination for immigrants, Minister Marcelino said.

The program accepts applications for grants in April and October every year.  Eligible organizations can apply annually for a one-time special project and/or operational grant.  To be eligible, organizations must be not-for-profit, Manitoba-based, incorporated as ethnocultural organizations and in operation for at least one year.  Successful applicants receive grants in the form of cash, bingo allocations or a combination of the two.

For more information about the Ethnocultural Community Support Program, contact the Multiculturalism Secretariat by phone at 204-945-5632 in Winnipeg or by email at multisec@gov.mb.ca. 

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