Our Communities

Make-A-Wish lights up the Gates

Emma Honeybun and Jesse Brogan STAFF REPORTER / Special to FP Community Review 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The Gates on Roblin glowed with lights, sparkles and joy on Nov. 25 as several Wish Kids, accompanied by their families, piled into a banquet space to view their special Trees of Joy Christmas trees, created by Make-A-Wish Canada.

The trees had been decorated down to the finest detail with goodies and decorations pertaining to each child’s individual interests by several of Make-A-Wish Canada’s Trees of Joy partners, including the Winnipeg Police Service and the Winnipeg Jets. The specifications of each tree had been requested months in advance.

Once the children found their trees — which was easily done, considering how individual they were — they were given a ‘magic wand’ and watched the creations come to life in front of their eyes, all while applause and encouragement echoed throughout the room.

Trees of Joy events are held across Canada during the holiday season. Make-A-Wish paired Wish Kids with corporate donors to create holiday magic for families facing hard situations at a joyful time. The Gates on Roblin (6945 Roblin Blvd.) hosted the event free of charge.

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The tree that tells a thousand tales

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read Preview

The tree that tells a thousand tales

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Palliative Manitoba’s memory tree is open for the holidays.

The massive tree, which displays messages of loss and bereavement for loved ones, was officially launched for the season on Nov. 27 at St. Vital Centre (1225 St. Mary’s Rd.), near the site of the former Hudson’s Bay Company store. The event included performances by the Collège Jeanne-Sauvé Choir, as well as some inspiring stories.

The idea of the memory tree campaign, which is in its 38th year, is to provide comfort and compassion for visitors, as grief and feelings of loss can be magnified during the holiday season. Visitors write message on cards and attach them to the tree, taking time to reflect on the memory of a lost loved one.

The cards are free, but donations are more than welcome and gratefully received. The memory tree is staffed by volunteers who have training in compassionate aid and grief support, and organizers want to help people acknowledge that grief can be a normal part of the holiday season.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Photo by Simon Fuller
Two Palliative Manitoba volunteers are pictured shortly before the memory tree opened to the public on Nov. 27. Visitors can write messages on cards and attach them to the tree, taking time to reflect on the memory of a lost loved one, until Dec. 23.

‘Every little bit helps’

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

‘Every little bit helps’

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The places may be different, but the mission remains the same.

The Christmas Cheer Board has two new locations this year — at 133 Paramount Rd. and 1414 Main St. Last year, it operated in a space 895 Century St.

For those unfamiliar with the annual campaign, the community-driven, grassroots non-profit organization supports individuals and families in need across the city by delivering food and toys — including grocery hampers and gifts for children aged 14 and under — to those who may be struggling or might otherwise do without during the holidays.

Right now, volunteers are manning phone lines and processing hamper applications, organizing donations and warehouse space, and preparing for the delivery process, which begins this month. Shawna Bell, the Christmas Cheer Board’s executive director, said the Cheer Board processed 26,000 applications last year — more than 2023, which highlights a growing need.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Photo by Emma Honeybun
Shawna Bell (pictured) is executive director of the Christmas Cheer Board. The local non-profit, which specializes in Christmas hampers, received over 20,000 applications last year.

Compost drop-off program ‘exceeded expectations’

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Compost drop-off program ‘exceeded expectations’

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

After a year of gathering food scraps, Compost Winnipeg is making a heap of difference.

Starting in October 2024, Compost Winnipeg has operated a citywide community food waste drop-off program, whereby residents can drop off food waste for no cost at 17 locations. As a result, over 345,700 kilograms of food waste was diverted from landfills after a year.

“It very much exceeded our expectations,” said Karrie Blackburn, sales and customer service lead with Compost Winnipeg. “When planning this, we anticipated two bins per site, but quickly most graduated to five, six, or seven, or in the case of Dakota Community Centre, nine bins, and as many as two collections per week. The program was well received by Winnipeggers, and respectfully, too.”

As a result, Compost Winnipeg is looking to expand the program by offering more places for food waste to be dropped off for composting.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

File photo by Simon Fuller
From left: Mandy Furney, general manager at Valley Gardens Community Centre (218 Antrim Rd.), and Karrie Blackburn, sales and customer service lead at Compost Winnipeg, are pictured in a 2025 file photo. The centre is one of 17 drop-off locations.

Committee approves application for 55-plus complex near Charleswood United Church

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Committee approves application for 55-plus complex near Charleswood United Church

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The Assiniboia community committee held a marathon, 10-and-a-half hour meeting on Nov. 20 at which several projects were discussed — but the one which drew the most heat was a hearing for a subdivision and rezoning at 4820, 4724, and 4814 Roblin Blvd.

Proposed by Charleswood United Church, the project calls for a six-storey, 132-unit multi-family building on a newly created lot 2.64 acres in size, directly beside the existing church — which would not be altered in any way.

The new building — which will serve as housing for people aged 55-plus — will be accessible from Roblin Boulevard and include 200 parking stalls, 64 of which would be located underground.

Some 74 residents registered in opposition, many of whom raised concerns that the proposed building will not fit the historic esthetic of that area of Charleswood, particularly due to its close proximity to the church.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied image
A proposed 55-plus apartment complex in Charleswood was approved following a public hearing at a Nov. 20 Assiniboia community committee meeting.

New housing projects approved by City Centre committee

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 4 minute read Preview

New housing projects approved by City Centre committee

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The City Centre community committee held a regular meeting on Nov. 24.

A number of public hearings were held during the meeting. Up first was an amendment to the zoning agreement for 540 and 550 Kenaston Blvd., to allow for a drive-through-only McDonald’s restaurant. The application was approved, with nobody registered in opposition. Final plan need to be approved by the committee.

A combined subdivision, rezoning, and variance application was heard for land located at 1350 and 1360 Pembina Hwy., and 969 and 975 Dowker Ave., in order for Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation to build a mixed-use, multi-family development on the old police station site at 1350 Pembina Hwy. The land is currently zoned for commercial and public use. Some land from each parcel would be needed to re-route a public lane attaching to Dowker Avenue. The new building, which would include 144 units with a minimum of 43 affordable units, would require plan approval by the committee before construction can begin.

“Since 2013 this has been a property that has needed to be put to better use,” Coun. Sherri Rollins (Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry) said in support of the application. “I can’t think of a better use.”

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied image
Following a public hearing, the City Centre community committee approved a subdivision, rezoning, and variance application for Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation to build a mixed-use multifamily development on the old police station at 1350 Pembina Hwy.

Committee denies application for front driveway

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read Preview

Committee denies application for front driveway

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 2 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The Lord Selkirk-West Kildonan community committee held a regular meeting on the morning of Nov. 24. Several plans for the area were discussed.

Notably, the committee denied plans for a non-conforming approach at 958 Alfred Ave., which would have allowed for the construction of a front driveway for a single-family home currently only accessible from the back lane.

“I am a senior living alone, and during the last year I have been mugged (twice) in the back lane upon leaving my house,” the applicant wrote.

“I have become very afraid of leaving or entering my home through the back-entrance driveway. I avoid going out or coming in after dark. In times past, I have also missed a doctor’s appointment due to snow and ice build-up in my back lane, and not being able to make it out on time.”

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied photo
The back lane behind a house on Alfred Avenue, where a senior resident claims to have have been mugged twice, resulting in the need for a front driveway. The plans were denied by the Lord Selkirk–West Kildonan community committee.

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City news in brief — week of Dec. 3, 2025

FP Community Review staff 2 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Winnipeg

St. Amant’s gift wrap, coat check to run until Dec. 24

St. Amant Foundation’s 15th annual gift wrap and coat check is back in business at St. Vital Centre (1225 St. Mary’s Rd.).

The volunteer-staffed station gives holiday-season shoppers the chance to hang up their coats and shop in comfort, and to have their purchases wrapped in support of a good cause.

Pumpkin Promise proves a big success

— FP Community Review staff 2 minute read Preview

Pumpkin Promise proves a big success

— FP Community Review staff 2 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The numbers are in, and there’s proof positive Chris Okell’s Pumpkin Promise fundraiser portrays the power of the pumpkin.

This fall, the River Park South resident once again held the fundraiser at his southeast Winnipeg home, which included the display of massively sized, carved pumpkins and a fireworks display on Halloween.

He began the initiative more than a decade ago in memory of his mother, Marietta, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2010.

Okell recently presented a cheque to CancerCare Manitoba for $18,250, representing the fruit of his labours.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied photo
Pictured, from left: CancerCare Manitoba’s Donna Laurin is presented with a cheque by Chris Okell.

‘Like the sun on a rainy day’

Troy Westwood 3 minute read Preview

‘Like the sun on a rainy day’

Troy Westwood 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Isla Taylor is 10 years old and attends Sansome School in Westwood.

“My favorite class is gym,” she said. “My teacher, Ms. Paul, makes the day exciting and I love seeing my friends, doing sports council, and being a patrol.”

Isla loves school and she also really, really likes sports.

“I play hockey, swimming, tennis, golf, softball, and handball and I want to start ultimate and volleyball next,” she said.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied photo
Isla Taylor is the goalie with the St. James Rockets U11 A1 girls hockey team.

Picture perfect

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Picture perfect

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

As the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Until Dec. 4, Red River College Polytechnic is hosting the Canadian World Photographic Exhibition, featuring work from shutterbugs across the country. Illuminated by overhead sunlight in the college’s Manitou a bi Bii daziigae campus building (319 Elgin Ave.) in the Exchange District, the exhibit is a showcase of Team Canada’s entries in the 2025 World Photographic Cup, where it placed sixth overall.

The only entry from the flatland provinces, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, was Should I Stay or Should I Go, by RRC Polytech professional photography instructor, Jocelyne Hebert. Hebert has been teaching at the college for four years and graduated from the photography program herself in 2001.

The exhibition opened Nov. 20, and Hebert described the recognition as nothing short of “insane.”

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Photo by Emma Honeybun
Jocelyne Hebert (pictured), a photography instructor at RRC Polytech, was a member of Team Canada in the World Photographic Awards.

Sharing the gift of the gab

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Sharing the gift of the gab

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

There’s something powerful about the spoken word.

Every Friday morning, members of the Elmwood Speakers Club get together to practise their public speaking skills. But there’s more to it than that.

“We use communications skills to enhance the social and mental health of each member,” said Wayne Stanton, the club’s vice-president of education. “But it was never primarily a public speaking group. And I think that’s the strongest component, that we’re like a peer support group. We celebrate birthdays, we’ll attend funerals. The public speaking is secondary. It gives us structure. But it’s more of an emotional support group.”

Founded 47 years ago, the Elmwood Speakers Club, formerly known as the Elmwood Senior Speakers Club, was a part of the Toastmasters organization. A few years back, the group decided to go out on its own but it still follows a structured study and presentation plan, by way of the Agora Speakers International organization.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied photo
The Elmwood Speakers Club meets every Friday morning from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Bronx Park Community Centre (720 Henderson Hwy.). The group, which is nominally a public speaking group, is also a social club that provides support to its members.

Defending MMJHL champs off to red-hot start

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Defending MMJHL champs off to red-hot start

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

The St. Boniface Riels are sending a message to opponents: watch out!

The defending Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League champions were undefeated in regulation time through the first 14 games of the season to sit atop the 10-team loop with a quarter of the 2025-26 schedule played. The Riels lost 4-3 in a shootout neighbourhood rivals the St. Vital Junior Victorias on Nov. 18, then lost 3-1 to the Charleswood Hawks on Nov. 21. The Riels were back in the win column again with a decisive 8-3 win over the Fort Garry/Fort Rouge Twins on Nov. 23.

“It’s been a great start for us,” coach Paul Kastes said ahead of the Nov. 21 game. “It’s something we’re really proud in, and a lot has to do with the foundation we built last year. If you throw the playoffs in, that’s 25-1-1. It’s been an interesting run.”

At press time, the Riels held first place in the MMJHL with 29 points, two up on second place Transcona Railer Express, eight points ahead of third place Charleswood.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

File photo by Merlin Heppner
Defending Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League champions the St. Boniface Riels are off to a hot start to the 2025-26 season, going 13-0-1 ahead of a Jan. 21 game against the Charleswood Hawks.

Living the dream

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 4 minute read Preview

Living the dream

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 4 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Keylyn Filewich is living her dream.

The southwest Winnipeg native and basketball player has signed a contract with Östersund Basket in Sweden’s premier women’s basketball league, SBL Dam, marking her fourth season as a professional player.

Prior to her move to the Scandinavian nation, the former University of Winnipeg forward (who has also played centre during her career) spent time in Germany’s second tier with VfL VIACTIV-AstroLadies Bochum, where the team won the championship in her last year, when she also finished the season as MVP.

“When I finished in Germany, I wanted another chance to experience a different culture, and I had a teammate in Bochum who had played in Sweden and spoke very highly about the experience and bought into (head coach Max Tandberg Vall’s) vision,” Filewich, 27, said.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Supplied photo
Keylyn Filewich, pictured centre, is a south Winnipeg native who is earning a big reputation in professional women’s basketball. The 27-year-old has signed a professional contract with Östersund Basket in Sweden’s top premier women’s basketball league, SBL Dam.

Investing in our community

Doug Eyolfson 3 minute read Preview

Investing in our community

Doug Eyolfson 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Investing in Our Community: Budget 2025 Delivers for Winnipeg West

As we head into the holiday season, I want to send my warmest wishes to everyone across Winnipeg West. This time of year encourages us to pause and reflect on what matters most. I continue to be inspired by the generosity, resilience, and community spirit I see every day. Families have faced real challenges over the past year, and Budget 2025, which was presented in the House of Commons on Nov. 4, was shaped directly by the concerns many of you raised. I am proud that we passed this budget in the House so these investments can move forward and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Supporting affordability for families

Affordability remains the issue families raise with me most often, and the budget takes practical steps to ease daily financial pressure. A middle-class tax cut will save two-income households up to $840 a year. Continued investments in early learning and child care are lowering fees across the country and helping parents return to work with greater confidence. The Canadian dental care plan is expanding so more children and low-income households can receive essential dental care.

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Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

On Nov. 12, at the Naawi-Oodena site, representatives of all three levels of government announced a Direct Build project which will create 320 new homes, with at least 40 per cent offered below market value to support families with moderate and median incomes. Pictured are (from left): Manitoba Housing Minister Bernadette Smith; Winnipeg South Centre MP Ben Carr; Winnipeg West MP Doug Eyolfson, Saint Boniface – Saint Vital MP Ginette Lavack; Winnipeg mayor Scott Gillingham; Chief Gordon BlueSky of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation.

Medinav: Making health care more accessible

Uzoma Asagwara 3 minute read Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025

Happy fall, Union Station!

Our government is committed to making health care more accessible for everyone — and that means giving folks the tools to get the right care, at the right time. One of the ways we’re doing that is through Medinav, Manitoba’s new online booking system for same-day and next-day appointments at participating clinics, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Medinav is simple, secure, and designed to keep emergency rooms and urgent care available for those who truly need it most. Instead of waiting hours in an emergency room for a non-emergency concern, you can book an appointment online and be seen quickly at a clinic. This helps reduce strain on hospitals and ensures critical care spaces stay open for emergencies.

Where can you book?

December 8, 2025