Manitoba’s GrowWinnipeg Project Revitalizes Jewish Community NOW

UPDATE: A groundbreaking immigration project, GrowWinnipeg, is urgently revitalizing Winnipeg’s Jewish community by welcoming over 6,800 immigrants in just 25 years. This initiative, a partnership between the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and the government of Manitoba, is making waves as it continues to bring Jews from across the globe to the city, enhancing both cultural diversity and community strength.

The program has specifically attracted Jews from countries such as Argentina, Turkey, and South Africa. Notably, Daniel and Lora Kazado relocated from Turkey in 2017, seeking a secure environment for their family. Daniel expressed, “We wanted to find a secure place where we could find work and raise our family,” highlighting the urgency many families feel in search of safety and opportunity.

This movement began back in 1997, following a terrorist attack on a Jewish community center in Buenos Aires. Evelyn Hecht, the first director of GrowWinnipeg, recalls the urgent need for security felt by many Jews in Argentina. This led to the establishment of the program in 2000, which allows potential immigrants to experience Winnipeg firsthand before making the life-changing decision to settle.

During their week-long visits, newcomers receive essential support from local volunteers, building networks and understanding the community. “The people here were very welcoming,” said Daniel Kazado about his experience. Now a successful mechanical engineer and educator, he embodies the program’s success in fostering a new life in Winnipeg.

Current director Dalia Szpiro, who arrived from Uruguay in 2002, emphasizes the community effort behind GrowWinnipeg. With about 250 volunteers assisting, the program not only provides emotional and spiritual support but also connects families with job opportunities, essential for their new beginnings.

The implications of this project are profound. The Jewish population in Winnipeg, which had dwindled from 16,000 in 2000 to 13,690 in 2011, is now stabilizing at approximately 14,000 as of the 2021 census. Jeff Lieberman, CEO of the Federation, noted the program’s role in not just maintaining numbers but enriching the community. “The newcomers are great people, educated, able to get jobs, and starting a new life in Winnipeg,” he remarked.

The GrowWinnipeg initiative is a beacon of hope for many, demonstrating how targeted immigration efforts can sustain and rejuvenate communities. The success stories of families like the Kazados and Szpiro’s passion to welcome others into the fold showcase the human impact of this vital program.

As Winnipeg continues to embrace its new residents, the city stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of the Jewish community, ensuring that the legacy and culture remain strong for future generations. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as GrowWinnipeg continues to evolve and flourish.