When Feriel found out he would be emigrating to Winnipeg from his home country, he knew he had a lot of work ahead of him. The logistics of planning a move of such magnitude are complex enough, but it’s upon arrival in a new country that the real work begins. How would he make friends and become a part of the community? How would he navigate his new homes’ streets, services and customs? Integrating into a new country can be an overwhelming task.
The first step is to find secure housing and that’s where Abri Marguerite comes in. Feriel was able to reserve a spot in the transitional housing offered by Abri Marguerite and administered through l’Accueil francophone. These transitional apartments are designed for those arriving in Manitoba; a safe haven to start a new life. Available to individuals and families at a low cost, guests are welcomed into a home and community while they find their bearings in Winnipeg.
“When I found out that Katia, an employee of Abri Marguerite, would meet me at the apartment anytime I arrived, I was so relieved,” explains Feriel. “To know that I wouldn’t have to stay overnight in the airport, waiting for business hours to arrive, meant the world to me. It saved me so much stress and worry.”
Katia helped him settle into his new home and community, and eventually helped him find a more permanent home in Winnipeg. “She answered so many questions and helped me navigate the programs available to help me get settled,” Feriel continues. “When it was time to choose a new apartment, another employee, Issa, met me on site and explained how to get my utilities set up and other important details.”
A stable home and a helping hand go a long way to overcoming the challenges of integrating into a new country, and Abri Marguerite is proud to provide both so new arrivals to Winnipeg can start looking ahead to a bright new future.
