Manitoba-Start - one-stop Intake Process for Newcomers

Manitoba START, an information and referral centre for immigrants was officially opened today by Premier Greg Selinger. The centre provides a wide range of services to newcomers at a central location, assisting new immigrants to make a smooth transition to life in Manitoba.

November 29, 2010

CENTRALIZED INTAKE SERVICE NOW OPEN FOR NEW IMMIGRANTS

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New Centre Will Connect New Immigrants With Needed Services: Selinger

Manitoba START, a new information and referral centre in downtown Winnipeg that will refer new immigrants to settlement and employment services, was officially opened today by Premier Greg Selinger.

“New immigrants need information and support to successfully adjust to life in Manitoba,” said Selinger.  “The new Manitoba START office will be the first step for all new immigrants in Winnipeg, connecting them with the services they need.”

The Manitoba START office at 228 Notre Dame Ave. will provide a range of services for new immigrants including:

·         registering newcomers by collecting basic information to ensure they are connected to the most appropriate services and information;

·         assessing the immediate needs of newcomers including reviewing individual circumstances, discussing readiness for employment and identifying training needs; and

·         referring individuals to services that fit their needs such as registering them for settlement orientation programs and employment preparation workshops, booking appointments with appropriate employment services and providing information on Winnipeg’s core settlement service agencies.

“Manitoba START will be the starting point for newcomers once they arrive, providing a smooth transition from pre-arrival to post-arrival services,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Jennifer Howard.  “It will provide a clear access point for new immigrants and reduce confusion about where they need to go for the services they need.”

Manitoba’s population continues to grow through increased immigration. The province welcomed 13,520 immigrants in 2009.  Preliminary figures show that Manitoba received 12,243 immigrants in the first nine months of 2010, an increase of 16.9 per cent over the same period last year.

More information on immigration in Manitoba is available at:

www.gov.mb.ca/labour/immigration/index.html.

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