The Neepawa Newcomers Coat Room is a community-driven initiative aimed at supporting newcomers to Canada by providing them with winter coats for their first Canadian winter. This volunteer-run organization operates with the help of local groups such as Neepawa Settlement, FIL-CAN, ArtsForward, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Their work relies heavily on both monetary and in-kind donations to meet the growing needs of the newcomer population.

On September 24, Liesel Milligan, a representative of the Neepawa Newcomers Coat Room, delivered a presentation to the Rotary Club of Neepawa. She shared details about the project and explored ways in which the Rotary Club could offer support, as part of the initiative’s ongoing effort to foster community involvement and gain additional assistance.

“The Coat Room officially opened in October 2023,” Milligan explained. “We operated out of a donated space at the Prairie Alliance Church in Neepawa. We have two large rooms, which worked really well for us. But this is where everything comes together, and I’d like to spend a little time walking you through it. People know we provide coats, but they often don’t realize the relational experience newcomers have. This is a moment where our community truly shines, and where community health and investment play a crucial role. I hope that comes through.”

Milligan emphasized that the initiative goes beyond simply distributing coats; it’s also about educating newcomers on how to prepare for and stay healthy during Canada’s winter. Since most newcomers are from the Philippines, a tropical country, this knowledge is particularly valuable.

“When newcomers receive their coats, they’re free to go, but we also send them off with a winter welcome package,” Milligan said. “This is a key part of our program that many people don’t know about. Our goal is to plant the seeds of embracing and thriving during Canadian winters. We know there are significant health and community benefits to staying active and participating in recreational activities during the colder months. We want to introduce this idea early to help newcomers settle into their new environment.”