July 13, 2022
Manitoba Government Continues to Provide Comprehensive Settlement Supports to Newly Arrived Ukrainians
To assist in the settlement process, the Manitoba government is continuing to offer comprehensive supports to newly arrived Ukrainians to alleviate challenges they may face as they adjust to life in Manitoba, Premier Heather Stefanson announced today.
“Our government remains committed to providing a safe haven to newly arrived Ukrainians, who have endured unimaginable loss and suffering,” said Stefanson. “Manitoba continues to be the national model by offering a full continuum of settlement, social, educational and health supports that are readily accessible through a centralized reception centre.”
As of this morning, more than 4,180 individuals have attended the reception centre to access:
- meals and initial intake services to determine individual and family needs;
- access to temporary accommodations as needed;
- access to co-ordinated health-care services through processing for a Manitoba health card;
- orientation and referral services through Manitoba Start to facilitate awareness of settlement supports that link people to language training, the workforce and longer-term settlement needs;
- resources available through the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Manitoba Provincial Council; and
- services to find more permanent housing.
The premier noted the province provides health-care benefits to newly arrived Ukrainians, issuing more than 2,000 Manitoba health cards. Manitoba is also the first province to commit to funding the immigration medical examination required under federal immigration rules. This has already resulted in more than 700 refunded claims, added Stefanson.
Currently, more than 765 individuals are staying in 388 short-term hotel accommodations through the reception centre until they can transition to housing that is more permanent. Ukrainian families settling in Manitoba may also apply for a child-care subsidy for up to six months.
Additionally, more than 246 individuals are currently receiving benefits through the Temporary Assistance Program (TAP), which provides short-term monthly financial support toward housing, basic needs and supplemental health care including prescription, dental and optical benefits. Individuals can apply to TAP by phone at 204-945-5324 or by email at TAP@gov.mb.ca.
“The unwavering support of all Manitobans, including community groups and volunteers, has been fundamental to ensuring the settlement process has been as smooth as possible,” said Stefanson.
The premier noted the Manitoba government has provided $800,000 in direct humanitarian aid to Ukraine so far, as well as providing nearly 300 soft body-armour vests to assist with the war effort.
For additional up-to-date information on Manitoba’s response efforts and the resources available for Ukrainian refugees, visit the government’s dedicated website at https://manitoba4ukraine.ca.
- 30 -