Manitoba's New 30-Day Homelessness Plan

Author

Jas Singh
January 15, 2025

Hey Winnipeggers!

We’re halfway through the week, and it’s been a cold one! As we settle into the heart of winter, make sure you are bundling up and staying warm.

Today’s edition features a mix of stories, including a focus on housing and a spotlight on an exciting pop-up restaurant you won’t want to miss. While we don’t have a Charity of the Week section this time since it’s a quieter period for many charities, we’ll be ready to jump back in as we find ways our community can support them.

So grab a warm drink, get cozy, and enjoy today’s edition. We hope it brings a little brightness to your day!

In today’s edition:

  • New 30-Day Plan to End Homelessness in Manitoba

  • Winnipeg Secures $30.6M for Affordable Housing Growth

  • RAW:almond is Back for its 10th Year!

  • A New Police Campaign for Safer Roads

  • Multiple events this week & more

— Jas Singh

News

New 30-Day Plan to End Homelessness in Manitoba

We’ve all seen it. Inflation has hit hard over the last few years, and with rising costs, the number of Manitobans experiencing homelessness has continued to grow. More and more people are struggling to get by, setting up tents in parks and along streets just to survive.

But now, there’s hope. The province has announced Your Way Home, a bold plan to tackle chronic homelessness and offer a fresh start to those in need.

Here’s what it’s all about:

  • 700 people will transition from encampments into safe, secure housing within 30 days, starting February.

  • 300 new social housing units are being added, with wraparound supports like mental health and addiction services to help people rebuild their lives.

  • Tessa Blaikie Whitecloud, a seasoned leader in the sector, is heading the effort to ensure the program’s success.

Encampments will only be cleared when housing is ready, ensuring no one is left behind. The decommissioned sites will be cleaned and monitored to create safer public spaces for all Manitobans.

This plan isn’t just about housing. It’s about restoring dignity, offering hope, and creating a stronger, more compassionate community. It’s a big step toward a Manitoba where everyone has a place to call home.

Winnipeg Secures $30.6M for Affordable Housing Growth

Staying on the topic of affordable housing, the city just received a $30.6 million installment from the federal Housing Accelerator Fund, helping us tackle the housing crisis head-on.

This installment is part of a $122.4 million agreement, and the progress so far is something to be proud of.

Here’s what it means for our community:

  • Winnipeg exceeded its first-year housing target, permitting 4,307 new units (the goal was 3,733).

  • By 2027, 14,101 housing units are planned, including 931 affordable ones to support those most in need.

These funds will speed up local development and help create homes for families, seniors, and individuals who’ve been waiting for a place to call their own.

The Perfect Winnipeg Apartments:

I used to think finding the perfect apartment was like finding a needle in a haystack. You’d tour place after place—too small, too far, no parking—and leave feeling frustrated. That’s when I saw The Bolt at 2735 Pembina Hwy, and it changed everything.

This wasn’t just another Winnipeg apartment; it’s where modern design met convenience. Managed by Globe Property Management, The Bolt checks every box:

  • Fully-loaded suites: In-suite laundry, walk-in closets, and a dishwasher that makes life easier.

  • Indoor heated parking: A non-negotiable for Winnipeg winters.

  • Fitness room: Your health goals are just a short walk down the hall.

  • Prime location: Minutes from the University of Manitoba, Superstore, and Princess Auto Stadium for game-day.

So, whether you’re a student looking for convenience, a professional wanting modern comfort, or a family seeking home vibes, The Bolt delivers.

Stop searching and start living. Book your tour today—or pass this on to someone who’s ready to find their perfect match. 🏡✨

P.S. Looking to advertise in the Winnipeg Digest? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected]!

Community Digest

RAW:almond is Back for its 10th Year!

Foodies, this one’s for you. RAW:almond is back for its 10th year, transforming the frozen rivers at The Forks into a world-class fine dining destination. This three-week festival is a culinary adventure like no other.

Here’s why:

  • Each chef creates their own menu, offering 7-10 courses that take you on a unique journey through their culinary style.

  • With over 20 chefs to choose from, you can pick the cuisine that excites you the most.

  • Tickets are $315.65 (including tax and service). While it’s a splurge, the unforgettable dining experience is truly worth it.

So, whether you’re planning an early Valentine’s treat or looking to try something unique, this pop-up restaurant celebrates the creativity and flavours that make Winnipeg so special. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait too long!

Jets Quarter-Century Teams Announced!

If you think back, it’s incredible how many great hockey players have suited up for our city over the years. Now, the Winnipeg Jets are honoring those legends with their First and Second Quarter-Century Teams, highlighting the best players from the last 25 years.

Here’s who made the cut:

First Team

  • Forwards: Ilya Kovalchuk, Mark Scheifele, Blake Wheeler

  • Defense: Dustin Byfuglien, Josh Morrissey

  • Goalie: Connor Hellebuyck

Second Team

  • Forwards: Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, Bryan Little

  • Defense: Toby Enstrom, Jacob Trouba

  • Goalie: Ondrej Pavelec

But what do you think? Would you change anyone? The NHL will hold a league-wide vote from Feb. 12-26 to decide the ultimate Quarter-Century Team. Cast your vote and have your say!

City Updates

#DontDriveHigh: A Campaign for Safer Roads

The Winnipeg Police just launched a new campaign to tackle drug-impaired driving. The #DontDriveHigh initiative focuses on drivers under the influence of cannabis and other substances, aiming to educate and enforce.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Last year’s campaign led to 243 traffic stops, with 64 drivers testing positive for cannabis.

  • Passengers using cannabis or improper storage in vehicles resulted in 36 additional fines.

Cannabis edibles can impair driving for up to 12 hours, while inhaled cannabis peaks faster but still slows reaction times.

Driving while impaired doesn’t just put you at risk—it endangers everyone on the road. Police are hoping this campaign sparks conversations at home, especially with young drivers. It runs until March 2025, so let’s all do our part to spread the message and keep our roads safe for everyone.

Worried About Landing a Job After Graduation?

With school in full swing, we wanted to take a moment to highlight some amazing opportunities for students who are either looking for a job now or planning ahead for the summer.

If you’re a student, the University of Manitoba’s Get Hired program is an incredible resource for job opportunities, career tips, and workshops. With the UM Career Fair just around the corner on Jan. 22-23, it’s the perfect time to start networking and finding your next big opportunity.

Here’s what’s available this week:

  • Part-time/summer jobs: Roles with YMCA, Manitoba Hydro, and Mini U Programs.

  • Internships/co-ops: Opportunities with Scotiabank, CIBC, and Richardson International and more!

There are also workshops on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview prep to help you stand out. Job hunting can feel overwhelming, but with these tools, you’re one step closer to success. You’ve got this!

Event: Life-Cycle

Coming up this week:

This section includes only the major events happening soon. For a complete list of all events, you'll have to wait for future editions!

  • Brian Holtzman Comedy | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Basement Comedy Lounge

    • Description: Brian Holtzman is a certified L.A. and Austin comedy legend going on 35+ years in the business.

  • WSO presents Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert | Jan 17-18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Centennial Concert Hall

    • Description: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

  • Life-Cycle | Jan 17-19 (Tickets)

    • Location: Manitoba Theatre for Young People

    • Description: Life-Cycle combines acrobatics, puppetry, and digital effects to create a world where a simple bicycle can become pure magic.

  • Shadow Machina | 7PM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Gas Station Arts Centre

    • Description: A revolutionary fusion of shadow puppetry, acrobatics, and theatre.

  • Winnipeg Jets vs Calgary Flames | 6PM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Canada Life Centre

  • Guided Snowshoe Experience | 10-11:30AM, Jan 18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Assiniboine Park (Riley Family Duck Pond Shelter)

    • Description: Depending on the session you choose, come ready to learn more about winter creatures, winter tracking, winter trees or Park history.

  • Kiyanaan Indigenous Theatre Festival | Jan 18-19 (Tickets)

    • Location: Prairie Theatre Exchange

    • Description: Dedicated to bringing Indigenous theatre to audiences, offering production support to achieve artistic goals of the work of First Nations, Métis, Inuit artists.

  • Learn to Winter | 1-4PM, Jan 19 (More Info)

    • Location: The Forks

    • Description: Skate and Snowshoe Lessons, DJs by The Canopy, Winter Wellness Classes, Storytelling and Drumming in the Teepee and more!

Exciting Events: Jan 15th & 16th

Music 🎵

  • Open Mic | 7:30PM, Jan 15

    • Location: Park Alleys

  • Open Mic | 9:30PM, Jan 15

    • Location: Shannons Irish Pub & Eatery

    • Performer: Stephanie Westdal

  • Annaxis/Jared Adams/Todd Hunter Band | 8PM, Jan 16 ($10 at the door)

    • Location: Royal Albert Arms

  • Sam Singer | 8:30PM, Jan 16

    • Location: Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club

    • Genre: Folk

  • Cohen Sieg/Rob Ivany/Two Horse Town/Sean Taylor | 12-2PM, Jan 16

    • Location: Belle's Kitchen + Music Hall

  • Lost Country/Sean Burns | 8:30PM, Jan 16

    • Location: Park Alleys

Sports🏀

  • Winnipeg Jets vs Seattle Kraken | 7PM, Jan 16 (Tickets)

    • Location: Canada Life Centre

Family Fun🎆

  • Astronomy Night at Fort Whyte | 6PM, Jan 16 (Tickets)

    • Location: FortWhyte Alive

    • Description: Enjoy food, drinks, and a trip through the stars!

Special Events 🎨

  • Waitress - Musical | Jan 15 - Feb 1 (Tickets)

    • Location: Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre

    • Description: Jenna is a small-town waitress who puts her passion into incredible pie-baking. When she finds herself pregnant in a dead-end relationship, she realizes she must address her life, and find her true self in a world.

  • Malik Elassal Comedy | Jan 15-18 (Tickets)

    • Location: Rumor's Restaurant and Comedy Club

    • Description: Malik Elassal is a Lebanese-Canadian actor, writer, and comedian from northeast Calgary. He was named one of the New Faces at Just For Laughs in Montreal in 2022.

  • Oyster Nights Under Patio Lights | 5-8PM, Jan 16 (More Info)

    • Location: The Forks

    • Description: Evenings on the patio shouldn't be reserved for only the summer months, so The Common is partnering with Raw Bar Oyster Co. to bring you Oyster Nights Under Patio Lights.

  • Fleurs de Villes | Jan 16-26 (Tickets)

    • Location: The Leaf

    • Description: Fleurs de Villes ARTISTE is a fresh floral event showcasing Manitoba’s vibrant arts scene and outstanding floral talent. 15 fresh floral mannequins designed by local florists in collaboration with Manitoba arts and cultural organizations.

Thanks for reading The Winnipeg Digest! Let’s chat again on Friday!

P.S. Want to get your business in front of thousands of local Winnipeggers? Email us at [email protected].