Welcoming Newcomers to Rural Manitoba

Westman Immigrant Services

Westman Immigrant Services provides invaluable assistance to newcomers in rural Manitoba. Its programs include information, orientation, and settlement support, English language programs, employment support, volunteer services, and community outreach and education. It also works with other community groups to build capacity for improving services to immigrants and refugees.

The most difficult barriers faced by newcomers are commonly related to language. In January 2009, the organization initiated the development of a language co-operative, which will address Brandon’s critical need for interpretation and translation services.

Recognizing the strengths and benefits of a culturally diverse society, Westman Immigrant Services helps to ensure that newcomers have the best chance possible to participate in the social, political, cultural, and economic life of their communities.

For more information about this project and to see the final report when it’s available: Mapping Ethnocultural Organizations in Brandon and Rural Manitoba

Images courtesy Sandy Black