Canadian provincial government continues to support Ukrainians
The province is working with Manitoba's Ukrainian community to prepare to receive thousands of asylum seekers.
Nationwide preparations for the possible arrival of thousands of Ukrainians forced to leave their homeland because of the situation in Ukraine continue.
"Manitoba remains determined to welcome as many Ukrainians leaving their country as possible and will provide them with the full range of provincial services available," said provincial premier Heather Stefanson.
In preparation, a special committee of deputy ministers was created to lead and oversee the government's response and planning. Collaboration with the Ukrainian-Canadian Congressional Office in Manitoba also began immediately. The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization created a specialized and staffed Ukrainian Refugee Task Force to plan the arrival and resettlement of Ukrainian citizens in greater detail and speed.
Governments, the Ukrainian-Canadian Congress, and other Ukrainian-Canadian organizations, including resettlement organizations, are involved in this coordinating work. In addition, some community groups and other nongovernmental organizations are involved.
The final decision as to how many Ukrainians Canada will accept remains with the federal government. The Ukrainian Refugee Task Force will coordinate and provide full assistance to families and individuals arriving in Manitoba. This will include support through the provision of necessary housing, medical, social and mental health care, educational services, as well as assistance with employment and child rearing.
The prime minister also noted that additional provincial support will be provided to Ukraine and Ukrainians. In particular, an additional $800,000 CAD will be allocated, in addition to the $650,000 CAD already provided earlier, for humanitarian aid. In addition, there will be prioritization of processing applications and reimbursement of all fees received from Ukrainian citizens through the existing provincial Manitoba Nominee Program. A dedicated government website https://manitoba4ukraine.ca/ has also been created to collect and share information about Manitoba's response, and to arrange access for Ukrainians to volunteer programs, donations and other forms of assistance.
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