Winnipeg Digest
Posts
Manitoba Makes Birth Control Free

Manitoba Makes Birth Control Free

Jas Singh
August 23, 2024

Hey Winnipeggers!

Thanks a ton for the awesome support on my intro last edition! I’m pumped about what our community is becoming, and I’m doing everything I can to make this a big win for all of us. We got nearly 100 comments, and every single one was positive. So, thank you!

Oh, and don’t miss today’s poll—it’s all about the new logo!

In today's edition of the Winnipeg Digest:

Manitoba Makes Birth Control Free
U of M’s Largest Med Class Ever
Downtown Park: $2.5M Dollar Transformation
40+ Weekend Events & live music.

— Jas Singh

News

Manitoba Makes Birth Control Free

Starting October 1st, Manitoba is making a huge change—prescription birth control will be completely free for everyone. No more stressing over the cost of pills, IUDs, or hormone shots. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara put it best: “Prescription birth control is a right, not a luxury.”

This isn’t just about saving money (though saving up to $10,000 over a lifetime isn’t too shabby!). It’s about giving you the freedom to make choices about your health, your career, and your future without worrying about the cost. This move ensures that everyone in Manitoba has access to the care they need, whenever they need it.

So, mark October 1st on your calendar—this is a big win for all of us here in Winnipeg.

Why, you ask? Well, because we’re still on the hunt for local businesses who want to reach a great local audience like yourself!

We’re bringing you all this local goodness for free, but let’s be real—we’d love to keep it that way. So, if you know a local business looking to connect with our awesome readers (hint hint), tell them we’re ready to make some magic happen.

Help us keep this train rolling—support local, spread the word, and let’s keep The Winnipeg Digest the best free read in town! If you’re interested in sponsoring our newsletter, reach out to us at [email protected].

What's Happening in Winnipeg?

Local Updates:

Rail Strike: How It Might Impact Manitoba

As reported by CTV News, more than 9,000 railway workers are off the job, and it’s starting to make a big impact.

With trains halted, everything from agricultural products to critical supplies is stuck in limbo. Chuck Davidson from the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce says this could hit our economy hard, especially if the strike drags on. Prices might rise, and shortages could become a reality—especially in our grocery stores. It’s a situation that could affect everyone, so let’s hope the talks get sorted out quickly before things get too tight.

U of M’s Largest Med Class Ever

The University of Manitoba just brought in its biggest class of medical students ever—140 future doctors are now in the making. This isn’t just a headline; it’s a hopeful sign for our community.

With a long-standing shortage of medical staff in Manitoba, this boost in numbers is exactly what we need. More students mean more doctors down the road, and that’s good news for everyone, especially in areas that have struggled to get the care they need. It’s a step toward better healthcare across the province, and we’re all going to feel the benefits.

City Development:

Bridgwater’s New Housing Options

Bridgwater just got a housing boost at 250 Centre St. with 18 new affordable units hitting the market, alongside 125 other rental units.

This isn’t just another construction project; it’s about making sure more Manitobans have a place to call home without breaking the bank. Affordable housing is a big deal—it helps build stronger communities and gives everyone a fair shot at living in a great neighborhood. Whether you’re hunting for a new place or know someone who is, Bridgwater’s got some fresh options that could be just what you’re looking for.

Plan20-50: Opting Out

We usually don’t like to get political here, but Plan20-50 has everyone talking, and not in a good way.

Imagine being told you have to join a club you never wanted to be a part of—that’s the vibe some Manitoba municipalities are getting with this development plan.

It was supposed to bring everyone together, but instead, it’s sparked a bit of a rebellion. But now, the NDP government is letting towns opt out, giving local leaders more control. What does this mean for you? If your town opts out, your community might have more say in how things grow and change around you. So be sure to voice your opinion where it counts.

Air Canada Window Park: $2.5M Dollar Transformation

This redesign is about making the park safer and more inclusive, focusing on celebrating Indigenous culture.

Think turtle-shaped designs, spaces for performances, and areas for storytelling. This park is set to become a welcoming spot for everyone in the community. Whether you’re downtown for work or just out for a stroll, the new Air Canada Window Park will be a place where everyone can gather and feel connected. Construction is starting soon, so watch this space!

Exciting Events: August 23 - 25

This section only includes events until the next edition on Monday, so here’s what’s happening Friday till Sunday!

Sports🏀

Blue Bombers vs. Hamilton Tiger-Cats | 7:30PM, Aug 23 (Tickets)
- Location: Princess Auto Stadium, Winnipeg

Winnipeg Run Club | 8AM, August 24 (FREE)
- Location: The Forks (by the main elevator)

Valour FC vs. Vancouver FC | 2PM, Aug 25 (Tickets)
- Location: Princess Auto Stadium, Winnipeg, MB

Family Fun🎆

Mary Poppins Musical | Aug 23 - Sept 1 (Tickets)
- Location: Rainbow Stage
- Description: Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures.

Alleyways in the Exchange | 5PM, Aug 23 (Free)
- Location: Elgin Avenue & Bertha street
- Description: Alleyways in The Exchange takes place on the third Friday of each month, featuring a market, audio performances, an art lounge, and dance performances!

Movies in the Park | 6:30PM & 8:45PM, August 23 (Free/More Info)
- Location: Assiniboine Park
- Movie: Paw Patrol Movie and Free Guy

Pedal Plane Rides | 11AM - 4PM, August 24 (Tickets)
- Location: Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada
- Description: Give the aspiring young aviator in your life their first taste of flight with a ride on one of our pedal planes!

150 Outdoor Makers Market | 10AM, Aug 24 (Free)
- Location: The Forks
- Description: Great all day market to exploreand support local vendors!

Live Harness Racing | 1PM, Aug 24 (Free)
- Location: The Loop at Red River Exhibition Park
- Description: Come see the best of Manitoba’s standardbred horses at The Loop, the brand new racetrack and venue at Red River Exhibition Park.

FortWhyte Alive | Events (Tickets)
- Baby Bison Walk | 10:30AM & 1PM, Aug 24
- Bison Safari | 10:30AM & 1PM, Aug 25
- Description: See North America’s largest land mammal from just metres away, interacting in their natural habitat.

Fishing at The Forks | 3PM-7PM, Aug 25 (More Info)
- Location: The Forks, Winnipeg, MB
- Description: Ever wanted to try fishing but didnt know where or how to start? Well now you do! Come to the Forks by the waterfront where a skilled team will rent out gear to you and assist and teach you how to fish for catfish!

Summer Markets

St. Norbert Farmer’s Market | 10AM-2PM, Aug 24 (More Info)
- Location: 3514 Pembina Hwy, Winnipeg, MB

World Market | 11AM- 4PM, Aug 24 (Free)
- Location: The Loop at Red River Exhibition Park
- Description: Discover a treasure trove of handcrafted goods by talented local artisans and farmers.

Bronx Park Farmer’s Market | 9AM-2PM, Aug 24 (More Info)
- Location: Bronx Park Community Centre

Manitoba Filipino Street Festival | Aug 24-25 (Free)
- Location: Petrus Hall & Grounds
- Description: A festival with cultural dances, food, entertainment, and more! If you want to immerse yourself in the Filipino culture, this si the place to be!

Manitoba Night Market | 3PM- 11PM, Aug 25 ($7 dollar entry)
- Location: Assiniboia Downs
- Description: Live bands, beer gardens, 15+ food trucks, 100+ artisans and vendors, kid's activities and so much more!

Special Events 🥂

Friday Night Lights | Aug 23 ($55-60 Dollar tickets)
- Location: Blue Cross Park
- More Info: LINK
- Description: The Community Gym is putting on an event to help raise funds for the DSCP.

Gonzo Drift Bash & Car Show | 12-5:30PM, Aug 24 (Free for viewers)
- Location: 595 Lagimodiere Blvd
- Description: Pro drifts, Car Show & Food Trucks!

Summer Bazaar | Aug 24-25 (Tickets)
- Location: Polo park
- Description: With over 70 local businesses showcased, this is your chance to explore an incredible array of unique products, from handmade crafts to gourmet foods and trendy fashion.

Salsa Sunday | 4-8PM, Aug 25 ($5 Dollar Entry)
- Location: True North Square
- Description: Live performances, dance lessons & drinks!

Live Music 🎵

Events marked with ($) require prior ticket purchase. Other events may require the purchase of food or tickets available at the door or may be free.