A home for refugees in the West End

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 28/09/2015 (3666 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

At the moment, 700 Ellice Ave. might not look like much — one of many faded storefronts that populate the street. However, in about a year, it will become Naomi House, and will accomodate up to 10 refugees who are arriving in Winnipeg.

City Church has organized the building’s retrofitting to include seven bedrooms—including a handicap-accessible room—a common kitchen and dining area, the church offices and an outdoor deck area.

“We’ve raised $100,000, plus the building is paid for, which is really amazing,” said City Church pastor Tim Neilson. “We’re still short about $50,000 to $100,000. I believe that it’s going to come in as we’re moving forward… if things go right, we’re looking at about six months to one year for opening.”

Neilson said the process of purchasing a building and getting construction started has been in the works for the last three or four years. The location on Ellice Avenue is large enough to house the church’s offices as well, which Neilson said is ideal. The church’s City Connections program will work out of the offices as well, which helps refugees to find employment.

“We’re good at finding jobs for non-professionals, such as general labour,” Neilson said. “We’ve had good contacts… that’s what I like about the community, there’s so many resources, plus ethnic food stores which is a major bonus.”

The layout includes a staff bedroom to ensure that someone is available for the residents around the clock.

“We want someone here all the time. I haven’t worked with Syrian refugees yet, but some refugees haven’t used electric stoves and that’s a whole danger,” Neilson said. “If they’re coming from places where they’ve had modern conveniences, this (staff member) is just helping them get connected.

Neilson also added that part of the transitional support that City Church provides is helping refugees get accustomed to the downtown environment. Many people who are coming in fail to realize that although they are now in Canada, they are not guaranteed safety.

According to Neilson, about 98 per cent of his 200-person congregation are former refugees; he quickly felt the need in that community and he’s had their support and help in working with newcomers.

“In a sense, it’s refugees reaching out to refugees coming which is really neat. It takes the partnership of established Canadians to make that work,” Neilson said. “Often what is needed is for people to build significant friendships, if they have friends they’ll do so much better.”
 
The entire project has been made possible through charitable donations and volunteer work. Neilson is grateful that the lawyer, architects and engineers as well as a handful of others have provided their time at no cost. City Church hasn’t received any government funding for the project, but Neilson is happy for the freedom that accompanies self-sufficient funding.

Residents who can afford it will be expected to pay an affordable rate for rent. They will also participate in the home’s maintenance to their ability. The facility will need volunteer work and donations to stay open once it’s operational.

“We’re not the end-all,” Neilson said. “We’re a couple of pieces of the puzzle.”   

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