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Brandon Welcomes You

Guide to information, resources, and services you need to successfully integrate in Brandon.

Arriving in Brandon

Welcome to Brandon!

Thank you for choosing Brandon as your home here in Canada.

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming. The IRCC video, Your First Two Weeks in Canada shows some tips and information on how to make the transition easier. It’s available in English, Arabic, Armenian, Creole, and Farsi.

Below is a list of important things a newcomer needs to do during your first few weeks in Brandon:

WIS (westmanimmigrantservices.ca)

A person must have a SIN to work in Canada. Visit the Brandon Service Canada Centre.

Address: 1530 12 St, Brandon, MB R7A 7Y6
 

Apply Online

Some utilities are included in a rental agreement, so check with a landlord first.

  • If Hydro (electricity) is included in the rent, you do not have to sign up for an account but if it is not included you have to set up an account with Manitoba Hydro with the initial meter reading given to you by your landlord.

A person must register for Manitoba Health within three months of arriving in Brandon. The plan covers basic health care services. You can apply online Registration Form | Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care | Province of Manitoba (gov.mb.ca) or contact them Contact Us | Health | Province of Manitoba (gov.mb.ca) for more information.

This insurance provides coverage for personal belongings in a person’s home. Speak with an Insurance Broker to discuss individual options.

There are other insurance offices in Brandon, you can check by doing a Google search. The ones above are some of the known insurance companies, you can also go to the nearest Autopac dealers as they carry a range of insurance.

Check the section on Transportation: Moving Around (car icon) for more information.

Learn more here.

Click the Finance section (building icon) for more information.

When you go to the bank, make sure you already have a Canadian phone number.

Bring the following documents:

    • A valid and eligible passport
    • Canadian permanent resident card or your Confirmation of Permanent Residence
    • Social Insurance Number

Education and Preschool Daycare

Moving Around Brandon

Finances, Taxes, and Support

Legal Services

Housing in Brandon

Employment Resources

Immigration

Health

Entrepreneurship

Religion

The City, Community, Volunteering and Recreation

Recreation and Fun Activities

The City and Cultural Initiatives

Youth Clubs and Sports

Volunteer Opportunities

Sports Activities and Clubs

Accomodation

Parks in Brandon

Understanding Provincial and Federal Governance

Education and Preschool Daycare

Preschool Age Information

According to the Child Care Guide of the Government of Manitoba, children’s early experiences deeply impact their brain growth and development. Quality early learning and child care support children to learn and succeed later in life.

Learn more about licensed and unlicensed child care in Manitoba through the link: Province of Manitoba | education – Child Care (gov.mb.ca)

Brandon has many daytime options for childcare facilities, licensed and unlicensed in-home childcare.

The childcare search tool can be accessed at Province of Manitoba | education – Child Care (gov.mb.ca). The site also features a childcare cost and subsidy estimator; people can apply for a subsidy online.

The Government of Manitoba has the Child Care Subsidy Program which provides eligible families help with the cost of care by reducing childcare fees for children from the ages of 12 weeks to 12 years.

Your eligibility depends on various factors including:

  • Income
  • The number and age of your children
  • The number of days required for care
  • The reason for care

To learn more about your eligibility visit:

Province of Manitoba | education – Child Care (gov.mb.ca)

Use the Subsidy Eligibility Estimator to check your subsidy estimator.

The Government of Manitoba also has the $10 a day Child Care, to learn more about this program click on the link Province of Manitoba | education – Child Care (gov.mb.ca) (please post the FAQ chromeextension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.gov.mb.ca/

education/childcare/families/pubs/faqs_10childcare.pdf)

Most government-supported childcare facilities are usually full and there is a waiting list. There are  private childcare facilities or home daycare operators you can reach out to check for available spots.

Regarding the cost for childcare, if the facility is supported by the government there is a chance that they offer the $10 a day, as mentioned these facilities are usually full and has a long waiting list. Most private childcare/daycare cost around $35 – $45, some offers snacks with the cost.

New Preschool School in Brandon

Montessori Smiles – Montessori School: Montessori School | Brandon, MB | Montessori Smile

Elementary School and Secondary School: 6-18 Years Old

The Brandon School Division manages the schools in Brandon. The Division operates a neighborhood school concept whereby students in elementary school attend the school according to their catchment area.

For the middle school level, school catchment areas have been established to ensure reasonable class sizes while protecting the right of students to attend schools built to serve their neighborhoods.

The high schools operate on an open boundaries concept and you can check with the Division Office for course and space availability at the Division high schools. If a student wants a special program, i.e. vocational or French Immersion, catchment areas do not apply and they will enroll in the appropriate school.

In Manitoba, “School of Choice” legislation also exists whereby you can apply to have your children attend a school outside your designated catchment area.

For young children in kindergarten age, enrolling them in school is not mandatory, but once they reach 7 years old, it becomes mandatory for them to be in school.

If you are thinking of doing a pre-registration, you need an address here in Brandon and most schools want to have a personal assessment of the child being enrolled. However, if one of the parents already resides in Brandon, they can do a pre-registration with details on when their child/children arrive in Brandon.

Here is the information you need to register your kids for a K-12 school in Brandon:

Westman Immigrant Services’ Settlement Workers in Schools Program

It is a school-based settlement service that provides direct and immediate assistance to newcomers and their families.

To learn more about this service, check this link Youth + Teen Programs – WIS (westmanimmigrantservices.ca) or contact 204-727-6031 and press 0 to schedule an appointment with a Settlement Facilitator.

Post-secondary institutions in Brandon

If you or your child/children are thinking of pursuing an educational upgrade, college or university education. Brandon has a college, university, and other learning institutions that can help you with this goal.

University

    • Brandon University

    Founded in 1899, Brandon University is considered a small-sized university with just over 3,200 student attending each year. 70% of our classes have 20 students or fewer. This size helps with the professor student ratio to ensure students are supported through out their studies.

  • Brandon University Location:  With the cozy feel of a small town, Brandon is actually the second largest city in Manitoba with 58,000 residing in the metro area.

  • Big City Amenities:  Brandon plays host to a variety of events year round such as the Brandon Wheat Kings hockey, Brandon Jazz Festival, and Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, just to name a few. Get active at the Riverbank Discovery Centre or take the short drive to Riding Mountain National Park.

For more information, please visit: BrandonU.ca

Other Universities across Manitoba

College

  • Assiniboine Community College

Learn By Actually Doing.

At Assiniboine, we immerse you in authentic situations and encourage you to spend more time away from the textbooks. Our college knows real-world skills and experiences are important. That’s why our programs connect you with industries and communities through projects, conferences, cooperative work placements and practicums. All of this prepares you for a meaningful and interesting career.

Be Part of a Community.

Yes, we have small class sizes. Yes, your instructor knows your name. Yes, you can get to your classes in under five minutes and still have time for a refuel of caffeine. But more importantly, you’ll make friendships that last a lifetime, learn from industry experts who can’t wait to share everything they know with you, and study in an intimate setting that gives you the right tools for future success.

Learn what’s the right program for you at www.assiniboine.net.

Other colleges across Manitoba

International College of Manitoba
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
Red River College

Faith-Based Colleges

Canadian Baptist Bible College
Living Word Bible College & Christian High School
St. Andrew’s College
Steinbach Bible College

Manitoba Emergency Services College

Manitoba Emergency Services is an educational institution unique to Brandon. The Emergency Services College is committed to providing superior emergency response training programs that meet the needs of emergency services and industry. The College offers a full-time program for persons interested in a career in the Emergency Services field. The classroom maintains a full complement every year and provides continuing education to over 2600 students per year.

To learn more visit: Office of the Fire Commissioner | Manitoba Emergency Services College | FireMedic Training | Firefighting and Paramedic Training | Public Fire Paramedic Program (gov.mb.ca)

Adult Education

Center for Adult Learning & Programming: Adult Learning and Upgrading | Assiniboine College

Brandon Friendship Centre Adult Upgrading: Adult Upgrading (brandonfriendshipcentreinc.ca)

English Language Classes:
Assiniboine Community College – English as a Second Language | Assiniboine College
Westman Immigrant Services: Learn English – WIS (westmanimmigrantservices.ca)

Other Education Links

Canadian Flight School | Commercial Pilot Training | Brandon Flight Centre

The Learning Company (TLC) in Manitoba – Career College

School | Brandon | H&CO Academy

Brandon Literacy Council Inc. – Serving Brandon and Area Since 1989

Training Centre | samaritan-house (samaritanhouse.net)

LINKS Institute Social Service Worker Online Program / Diploma (links-institute.ca)

Foreign Credential Assessment

Doing a foreign credentials assessment depends on what you plan to do in Manitoba.

Regulated occupation

If you are planning to work in a regulated occupation, you will need to research the occupation and the steps required to gain professional registration. In many cases, it is illegal to work in a regulated occupation unless you are registered with the respective regulatory body. Many occupations are regulated in Manitoba. Examples include nurses, engineer, architects, dentist, electrician, and crane operator. For further information, see Regulated Professions and Trades.

Studying at a post-secondary institution

If you are planning to study at a post-secondary institution in Manitoba you must contact the institution to learn about the admissions process. Post-secondary institutions typically conduct their own academic assessments to determine if an internationally educated applicant meets the minimum education requirement for admission to a particular program of study.

The Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC)

There are six recognized agencies in Canada which conduct academic assessments/evaluations. All are members of the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC). Each agency has its own application process, documentation criteria, fees, and processing times. Individuals can apply for an assessment from within or outside of Canada. It can take up to 12 weeks for an assessment agency to complete the assessment process (from initial application to result).

Members of the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada:

Comparative Education Service (CES)

International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)

International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)

International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)

World Education Services (WES) Canada

Student Loan, Grant, Bursary for Permanent Residents and International Students Manitoba Student Aid

If you are thinking of going back to school or for your children to fund their education the first place to go to get information is through the Manitoba Student Aid Website: Applying for student aid? – Manitoba Student Aid | Province of Manitoba (gov.mb.ca)

When you apply for Manitoba Student Aid, you are automatically applied to the National Student Loan Service of the Federal Government.

Assiniboine Community College Awards and Bursaries

Assiniboine Community College has awards and bursaries available to students both residents and international students.

General Information: Scholarship & Bursaries | Assiniboine College

International Students: Financial Aid for International Students | Assiniboine College

Brandon University Scholarship and Awards

Brandon University has available scholarships and awards to students who are residents and international students. There are available awards for future students and current students of the university.

General Information: Scholarships and Awards | Brandon University

International Students: Search for Scholarships (brandonu.ca)

Moving Around Brandon

Public Transportation

As a newcomer, the best way to move around the city is through public transportation. The city bus system covers all the major routes where you need to go like government offices, food stores, malls, and schools, including the university and college.

For bus fares, Brandon Transit has a SMART Card. It is an electronic reader that replaced paper tickets and monthly passes. It is reloadable. It can be loaded with either pre-paid rides (in multiples of 10) or as a time-based pass. If you select pre-paid rides, your card will be loaded with 10 rides. If you select a time-based pass, your card will be loaded with 30-day increments.

You can also pay with coins. For adults, the base fare is $1.75, and for youth and seniors is $1.35

College and University students have a UPASS Program. UPASS is a SMART Card you get from your college or university that gives you unlimited access to Brandon Transit.  Contact your college or university for more information.

For High School students, there is no specific program. High School students will be charged with youth pricing. A 30-day unlimited bus load is $51.25.

To learn more about the Bus Fares for 2024 and where to buy and load your SMART card visit Brandon Transit’s website and click on the section for fares.

Before coming to Brandon, it would be best to get yourself familiarized with the bus routes and bus numbers to take for your arrival must-dos such as going to Service Canada to get your SIN and going to a newcomer service provider.

The hours of operation for buses are below:

Hours of Operation

Monday – Saturday buses run from 6:00 am to midnight.

Sunday buses run from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Click on this link to learn more about the Routes and Schedule. The page also has a trip planner to know the exact times the bus will depart from your desired location.

For more information visit Brandon Transit’s.

Winnipeg Airport Shuttle Services

There are different ways to get to Brandon from the Winnipeg airport, especially if you do not have anyone to pick you or your family when you arrive.

There is no bus service from Winnipeg to Brandon, however, there are airport shuttle services:

  • Brandon Air Shuttle

You can book this service online. The base fare is $61. To learn more about schedules and fares and to book your service, please visit Brandon Air Shuttle | Winnipeg Airport Shuttle

  • Westman Shuttle

Westman Shuttle is the new Winnipeg airport shuttle service, they offer premium  door-to-door service starting at $80 and regular service with 4 pick-ups and drop-off locations in Winnipeg, starting at $65.

Taxi Services (please put logos for each of the taxi services)

Another way to go around the city would be to use a taxi service, especially if you are carrying big loads and you are going to appointments within a specific timeframe or you simply want to reach your destination faster. Below are some of the major taxi services in Brandon:

         ABC: (204) 726-1600

         Abramson Taxi: (204) 730-8294

         Brandon Sunset Taxi: (204) 729-9000

         Mr. R!DE TAXI: (204) 571-1111

         4-Way Taxi: (204) 727-2500

Manitoba Public Insurance

As a new resident of Manitoba, you can drive a passenger vehicle with your valid license for up to three months. To learn more visit New or Returning to Manitoba (mpi.mb.ca) go to the nearest MPI office at 731 1st St when you arrive in Brandon.

Optional Identification Card

Manitoba Public Insurance offers an optional Manitoba Identification Card for Manitobans who do not have a driver’s license. To learn more about the requirements and eligibility visit the nearest MPI or check the information at How to apply for an identification card (mpi.mb.ca). 

Driving Schools for Youth and Adults

Driver Z  is driver education for the next generation.

  • Using a mix of online and in-car learning, Driver Z gives students the tools, knowledge, and confidence to improve their driving ability, reduce risk, and prevent collisions.

How to register?

  • If you’re at least 15 ½ years old, you can register for Driver Z.
  • But first, you need to be set up as a customer. You’ll also need to go to an Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre and pay $50 for the Driver Z service, which includes the course, vision testing, and knowledge test.
  • A parent or guardian must be with you at the Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre, or they can sign a Parental Consent Form and you can go on your own.

Most jobs in Brandon and Canada, in general, require a level 5 driver’s license. Some jobs require you to travel to different places daily. Passing a driver’s test and having your vehicle will make things convenient for you, especially if you have young children.

Learning to drive or the way they drive here in Manitoba, particularly in Brandon, can be overwhelming, and at times you would like to be taught in your language.

Below are some of the Multilingual Driving Schools in Brandon:

    • Aksum Driving School provides services in English, Arabic, Amharic, and Tigrinya.
    • A Plus Driving School provides lessons in English, Amharic, Tigrinya, and Somalian. They also offer free orientation to newcomers of African descent and discount to all newcomers. Contact the school at 204-570-0678.
    • Rangi Driving School provides lessons in English, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu. Contact the school at 204-730-2500.
    • Shevyboy’s Driving School (shevyboydrive.ca)
    • ITeachUDrive provides services in English and French.

For other school listings, check this link on Find A Driving School (mpi.mb.ca) through the Manitoba Public Insurance site.

Finances, Taxes, and Support

As a newcomer in Canada, you have to learn about the Canadian Banking System and the different financial supports you can get to help you successfully settle.

The Government of Manitoba has a website dedicated to financial literacy resources: Province of Manitoba | finance – Financial Literacy (gov.mb.ca). Understanding how budget allows you to make more cost-effective choices when spending, saving, and investing your money, can help you and your family to be financially secure.

Another resource that can help you understand your finances as a newcomer is Prosper Canada My money in Canada (prospercanada.org)

IndigenousTech is another organization that provides financial literacy courses. They worked closely with Brandon Police Services to provide financial literacy in the policing sector. IndigenousTech has developed free courses for newcomers on understanding the Financial Credit System in Canada and Business Fundamentals – if establishing a business is one of your plans. Check more information on the flyer.

Opening Your Bank Account

One of the checklists that you need to do when you arrive in Brandon is to open your bank account because you need it for your daily transactions. Most banks have a points program that can help you earn points you can use for grocery and other services. You can ask the financial adviser at your preferred bank.

Click on this link for an overview of Understanding the Canadian Banking System: | National Bank (nbc.ca).

Other banks that you can set up your account online:

There are other virtual bank options. The ones above are connected to CIBC (Simplii Financial: Simplii Financial) and Scotiabank (Tangerine: Tangerine).

Taxes

As a newcomer, filing your taxes is one of your responsibilities and it will also help you gain access to tax credits and benefits that will help you and your family with some financial support. Learn more about Tax credits and benefits for individuals – Canada.ca through the Canada Revenue Agency website.

When filing for your taxes, different organizations provide this service, even the Canada Revenue Agency. You can use this link to find a tax clinic (cra-arc.gc.ca)

Prairie Mountain Health has the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program – Prairie Mountain Health. This link also shows the locations where you can go to get your taxes done for free.

Westman Immigrant Services hosts an annual free tax clinic. When you become a client, you will get a notification via email. Dates will also be posted on their social media and website (under events) or call the organization at 204-727-6031 ext. 0 and ask the front desk for the dates.

Financial Support

Aside from financial support through tax credits and benefits under the Canada Revenue Agency the Government of Manitoba offers support under the Department of Families, including Employment and Income Assistance and Rent assistance to learn more about the programs visit Province of Manitoba | fs – Financial Benefits and Assistance (gov.mb.ca)

Legal Services

Legal Aid Manitoba

Legal Aid Manitoba provides legal services to low-income adults and youth in Manitoba who:

  • Qualify financially:
  • Temporary residents are not covered by this service.

Westman Immigrant Services Legal Clinic and Notary Public Services

  • Westman Immigrant Services has a legal clinic and notary public event happening once a month. Call the organization at 204-727-6031 ext. 0 and ask the front desk for the dates.                                      

List of Law Firms in Brandon

Burch Law (burchlawmb.ca)

Services: Real Estate, Corporate / Commercial, Family Law, Will & Estate Planning, Power of Attorney & Health Care Directive, Estate Management, Criminal Law, Legal Aid, Civil Litigation, Immigration, Independent Legal Advice, and Notarization of Documents. 

Burgess Law Office

Note: they do not have a website. Their office is located at 3000G Victoria Ave.

DKLegal |

Services: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Civil Litigation, Corporate and Commercial, Criminal Law, Employment/Labour law, Family, Notaries Public, Real Estate, and Wills and Estate.

EDWARDS LAW FIRM

Services: Estate and Wills and Notaries Public

Epp Law Office

Services: Real Estate, Corporate Legal Services, and Estate Administration

Hunt Miller & Co. Legal Services in Brandon, MB. (huntmillerco.com)

Services: Family Law, Criminal Law, Real Estate Law, Wills & Estate, Mortgage, Personal Injury Law, Corporate Law, Commercial Litigation, and Notaries Public.

Meighen Haddad LLP I Brandon Law Firm (mhlaw.ca)

Services: Notaries Public, Real Estate, Commercial/Corporate, Will & Estate, Family Law, Agribusiness, Civil Litigation, Labour and Employment, Intellectual Property and Technology, Construction, Municipal and Oil & Gas.

Lawyers | Patersons LLP | Brandon, MB

Services: Real Estate, Commercial/Corporate, Agriculture, Mediation, Arbitration, Estates, Trusts, Wills & Power of Attorney, Civil Law, Family Law, Municiapal, and Notaries Public.

Manitoba Lawyers – PPD Law

Services: Notaries Public, Real Estate, Business, Corporate Law, Civil Law, Wills & Estate, Immigration Law, and Family law.

Roy Johnston Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP (tdslaw.com)

Services: Advocacy, Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Business Law, Labour & Employment, Wills, Estates & Trusts, and Notaries Public.

Note: Walk-in Notary Public service is available Wednesday mornings from 9:00 am – 10:00 am.

TREO LAW LLP – Brandon, Manitoba Law Firm

Services: Real Estate, Family, Corporate/Commercial, Child Protection, Wills & Estate, Litigation, Municipal Law, Notaries Public, and Immigration.

Law Enforcement Education and Police Services in Brandon

  • Criminal Record Check
    • One of the documents that you will be asked to submit for employment or volunteering, and other situations that require you to submit this document (visa/immigration, taxi application, and for school), is the Criminal Record Check. You can apply for this document online: Police Record Checks:: The Brandon Police Service :: Consumer :: Home (policesolutions.ca)
    • For volunteer purposes, it is preferred that you apply for this in person to avail of the discount given to individuals who need this check for volunteering involvement.
    • It is advisable to include the Vulnerable Sector Check when you apply for your Criminal Record Check, especially if you will be working in organizations that deal with the vulnerable sector. Same for when you apply for Criminal Record Check for volunteer purposes.
    • How much is the cost? What do you need to bring? Check City of Brandon – Criminal Record Checks for information on cost and acceptable proof of identification.

Housing in Brandon

General information about housing affordability in Brandon.

Phone: 204-726-6230

Toll free in Manitoba: 1-800-656-8481 Fax: 204-726-6589

Email: rtbbrandon@gov.mb.ca

Part of the initial rent that you have to pay to secure the rental property is the security or damage deposit. This deposit will go towards unpaid rent, damage, extraordinary cleaning costs, or other obligations of the tenant. Here is a link to a fact sheet on rent deposit: 

https://www.manitoba.ca/cca/rtb/resource_list/deposits.pdf

Whether you choose to buy a house when you arrive and secure employment or plan to do it once you are more stable. It is better to be prepared, below are some resources regarding mortgages in Canada. You can also talk to your preferred banking institution regarding mortgage products they offer (refer to the section on financial institutions for a list of banks in Brandon).

Why do you need to get a renter’s insurance?

Although the landlord is responsible for maintenance and upkeep costs. There are other situations that you need to prepare for, such as if one of your guests is injured, or something happens to your personal property (fire or theft) this is covered under rent insurance.  In Brandon, there are rental properties that require you to have a renter’s insurance. Some landlords or building managers will discuss this with you, including the insurance companies they are connected with.

You can purchase your renter’s insurance online, but it is still a best practice to talk to an insurance representative in person. You can go to the nearest AutoPac (Auto Insurance Offices). Below are some of the companies that offer renter’s insurance in Brandon:

CAA Home (Rent) Insurance Quote | CAA Manitoba

Tenants Insurance – Ficek Insurance

Tenants Insurance in Brandon, MB | Guild Insurance Group

Home Insurance – Rent (tdinsurance.com)

Tenant Insurance – RBC Insurance

Tenant Insurance – Manitoba – Westland Insurance

Home Insurance Manitoba | Western Financial Group

Housing: Rental Properties

Housing – CHHA (communityhealthandhousing.ca)

Located in downtown Brandon, CHHA owns and manages 78 apartments that offer affordable and subsidized housing for individuals and families in need.

Brandon Area Realtors, Brandon, Manitoba

Brandon Area Realtors is a site where you can connect with realtors to help you with finding a rental property or buy a home. Below are some of the know Realty companies in Brandon:

Brandon | Century 21 Westman Realty (c21.ca)

Chris Low Realtor® : RE/MAX Valleyview : Home (westmanrealestate.ca)

Brandon MB Real Estate & Homes for Sale | RE/MAX ValleyView Realty (remaxvalleyviewmanitoba.com)

Available Rentals – Brandon, MB Real Estate – Manitoba – Royal LePage (royallepagebrandon.ca)

Sutton Harrison Real Estate Brandon Manitoba | Homes | Condos | Commercial Properties | Condominiums | Property for sale in Brandon, MB

Apartment Search – Sussex Realty

Housing : Housing for rent – Brandon, Manitoba Classifieds (ebrandon.ca)

Rental Properties and Property Management Companies Offering Rental Housing in Brandon:

Aspen Greens Apartments in Brandon (broadstreet.ca)

Housing : Housing for rent – Brandon, Manitoba Classifieds (ebrandon.ca)

Hilltop Developments | Apartment Rentals, Braecrest Drive, Brandon, Manitoba

TDel Holdings Ltd. | Apartments for Rent in Brandon, Manitoba (apartmentsinbrandon.ca)

Rental in Brandon, MB (with reviews) | RentCafe

Rental Process – Towers Realty Group

Rhino Property Management | Rentals in Brandon Manitoba (rhinopropertymgmt.com)

VH Properties | Apartment Rentals, Property Management in Brandon, Manitoba

Willowdale Gardens | Shelter Canadian (scpl.com)

Employment Resources

To find successful employment before you come or when you arrive in Brandon, it is advised to research the type of industries and sectors operating in the city. Below is an overview of what to expect in terms of employment opportunities in Brandon.

Job Preparation Resources:

Each country has a different standard when it comes to resumes and cover letters. Below are some tips and resources for writing your resume and cover letter:

  • No photo on the resume: Should You Put Your Photo on Your Resume? – Career Impressions
  • Consolidate your resume into two pages for your initial job hunting.
  • Customize your resume according to the position you applying for. Use the terms or phrases indicated in the job posting.
  • In writing your cover letter, showcase your applicable work experience and transferable skills.

Cover Letter and Resume Reources:

Employment finding resources:

Career Development Training

If you are looking to upgrade your skills to help you look for better employment opportunities, the information below can help:

WEM has programs that cater to the needs of newcomer skills assessment and upgrade:

    • Essential Skills Manitoba:

Essential Skills assessments and training programs are designed to help participants develop skills to find meaningful, sustainable employment

    • Workplace Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition:

WPLAR identifies and recognizes the skills and knowledge that an individual has achieved. RPL promotes strategies and tools to recognize formal and informal learning.

WPLAR supports strong workforce development and a pathway to employment and training practice. The strength of RPL is the authentic and transparent assessment, and documentation of skills and knowledge learned in life and work.

To learn more visit Workplace Education Manitoba – Looking to improve your Essential Skills? (wem.mb.ca)

Bridging Programs Available at Assiniboine Community College

ECE Qualification Recognition (Accelerated) for Foreign-Trained Individuals | Assiniboine College

  • If you are a practicing practical nurse in your home country or have nursing experience and want to take this step while processing your nurse licensing, then consider this bridging program.

Contact Assiniboine Community College for more information about the programs and process. Click on the links to have an overview.

Immigration

Health

For information and application on the Manitoba Health Card, view Arriving in Brandon section of this guide. To find a doctor go to Provincial Family Doctor Finder.

Virtual Medical Care Options

Health Centres and Clinics in Brandon:

  • Brandon Regional Health Centre Services
  • 7th Street Health Access Centre
    • Newcomer Related Services:
      • Community Mental Health Worker (Adult)
      • Community Nurse (CN)
      • Community Social Worker
      • Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) – March – September

Taxes prepared by a volunteer and filed electronically to Revenue Canada. This service is free for families with an income less than $35,000.

From March – April clients are able to meet with a CVITP volunteer to have their taxes completed. Clients are also able to use our “drop off” service and leave their tax information at the centre for a CVITP volunteer to complete.

From May – September clients are able to use the “drop off” service.

    • Cultural Facilitators

Within health care, provides language support interpretation for individuals who speak Mandarin or Spanish language.

Organizes informational and cultural education opportunities.

Offers Cultural Awareness information to service providers.

    • Housing Resource Worker

Helps clients to find decent, low-cost housing and find options to get household supplies.

Works with other agencies to ensure supports are in place to help individuals to be successful tenants.

Advocates for improvements in rental units.

Is a liaison between tenants and landlords.

    • Nurse Practitioner

Available for those who do not have a family physician/primary care provider. Diagnoses and manages acute and chronic health conditions, orders and manages tests (blood work, X-rays, ultrasounds, Pap tests, swabs, etc.), performs minor invasive and surgical procedures (skin biopsy, suturing, etc.), prescribes needed medications, and connects clients to other staff and services as needed

    • Service Navigator

Usually, the first service provider you meet when you first come to the Centre for help.Assesses physical, social and emotional needs of clients. Helps problem solve, identify options and connect individuals with the right provider or resource.

    • Financial Facilitator

Works with and supports individuals where financial limitations impact health and wellness, connects individuals with existing income security and financial services, resources and programs. Builds Provider capacity to effectively address financial vulnerability as a key component of managing chronic disease.

Community Phone – Free phone service for outgoing calls and private voicemail boxes available.

Computers – With internet access.

Faxing and Photocopying – assistance as needed. Limited to 10 pages per day.

  • BrandonMedicalArts.ca
    • Most services are specialized services such as orthopedic, gastrointestinal, and family medicine with specialization in obstetrics and gynecology, and neurology.
  • HOME | Brandon Clinic
    • Some doctors speak other languages and they have a walk-in service. Please call (204) 728-4440, to ask if your language is available.
  • Harmony Medical Clinic
    • Call (204) 727-6464 to make an appointment. Walk-in is available at this clinic.
  • Newmount Medical Clinic
    • Call 204-726-0773 for appointments and services. Walk-in is available at this clinic.
  • Rosser Medical Clinic
    • Call (204) 729-8588 for appointment and services. Walk-in is available at this clinic.
  • Southbridge Medical Clinic – Medical Clinic in Brandon , MB (southbridgeclinic.ca)
    • Call (204) 728-3080 for appointments and services. They offer evening times by appointment.
  • Trinity Medical Clinic
    • Call 204-728-4141 for services and appointments. Some doctors speak other languages, to inquire if your language is offered.
  • Home | Wheat City Medical Clinic
    • Walk-in is available. Some doctors speak other languages, call 204-727-1711, to ask if your language is available.
  • Western Medical Clinic
      • Call 204-727-6451 for appointments and services. Walk-in is available.

Below are the dental clinics available in Brandon. Dental clinics are by appointment. The list below are the dental clinics in Brandon these clinics usually accept new patients but call the listed number to verify:

You can also visit Find a Professional (manitobadentist.ca) to check all practicing dentists in Brandon.

Find an optometrist: An online directory of Optometrists within Manitoba, visit the website Find An Optometrist | Manitoba Association of Optometrists.

Most optical shops have a resident optometrist who can prescribe the right reading for your eyeglasses. Depending on your insurance vision care including eyewear is covered, at least every two years. Below are some optical shops/clinics in Brandon:

The process of resettling in a new environment and culture can be overwhelming at times. Overall, having good mental health is important because it helps you build self-esteem, create positive relationships with other people, handle emotions and events, manage stress effectively, and achieve balance in your life. Knowing the resources available to you is important.

Mental Health – Prairie Mountain Health

This link has an access file of available services in Brandon.

Mental Health – Brandon Health Checks (brandonmbhealthchecks.ca)

Entrepreneurship

Is starting a business within your plan as you resettle in Brandon? The organizations below can help turn your business plans into reality – from financing options to guidance on how to grow your business’s success.

Religion

The City, Community, Volunteering and Recreation

City of Brandon

Brandon is the second largest city in Manitoba. In the 2021 Census was 51,313, a 5% increase from the 2016 Census. There’s an increase in the immigrant demographic with 2,765 in the 2021 Census, 28.9% increase from the population recorded (2145) in 2015. Brandon is great place to build and grow your family. The city is still in continuous growth phase, which includes growing opportunities for business, industries, and amenities that will help newcomers to find home away from home. Get to know more about the city in the snapshot file (Quality_of_Life_Editorial.pdf (economicdevelopmentbrandon.com)

Recreation and Fun Activities

Recreation is an essential public service for growing healthy, vibrant, and connected communities. As a newcomer knowing the community recreational programs, cultural groups, and greenspaces is a great way for you and your family to build your connections, for your kids to remain active, and to foster healthy integration.

  • Take a glimpse of the city recreational activities through the City of Brandon – Recreation Programs. This link also has information on other city programs that you and your family can get involved in.

The City and Cultural Initiatives

The City of Brandon strives to create a thoughtful and dynamic cultural programme that recognizes, enhances, and supports the existing cultural and ethnocultural communities. The City of Brandon has been supporting cultural events and recognizing the contribution of different cultural communities in the development of the city. Below are some of the immigrant-related cultural events and organizations in Brandon:

Cultural Events

The Westman Multicultural Festival started as the Lieutenant Governor’s Winter Festival in 2004 when former Mayor Dave Burgess was in his first term as mayor of Brandon. Since its establishment, it paved the way for cultural organizations to showcase their traditional food, beverages, dance, music, and art. In July 2023, the Summer Multicultural Festival was introduced. It was aimed at promoting the revival of the Winter Pavilion, due to the positive turnout the committee has decided to continue the Summer Multicultural Festival.

To get to know the Cultural Organizations/ Pavilions visit Westman Multicultural Festival (gotothepavilions.com)

Cultural communities also host their events. The section on cultural communities outlines the cultural organizations in Brandon.

Cultural Community

The growth in the newcomer demographic in Brandon means that there is also a growth in cultural groups, some have become an established organization. Below are some of the cultural communities well-established in Brandon:

William Contreras – President

204-720-0886

Eliana Osorio – Brandon Chapter Lead

Facebook: Hispanic Association of Manitoba Inc. (HAMI)

Mexico Cultural Group

Carlos Munoz

carlosmunoz_13@hotmail.com

Kerslin Fumier

kerslinfumier@hotmail.com

pca.brandon@hotmail.com

Facebook: PunjabiCultureAssociationBrandon

Julia Krykavska

204-740-0496

Facebook: Ukrainian–Canadian Association “Tryzub”

WestMan Chinese Association Website

Emelio Brown – President

https://westjamcom.ca

Joy Escalera – Chair of the Board

Joseph Mamuric Jr. – President

westmanfilipinocommunity@gmail.com

Facebook: Westman Filipino Community

Sandy Donald Jr

Isobel McBride – Membership

Westman Scottish Association (scotscanada.ca)

Youth Clubs and Sports

Manitoba 4-H Council (4h.mb.ca)

Is a program that provides members with the resources and activities to build self-confidence, communication, and leadership skills while learning about a topic of their choice.

This is a great program for newcomer kids and youth to establish their connections in the community and have activities to help them integrate.

Huddle Brandon (huddlemanitoba.ca)

Huddle has programs to help newcomer youth have a feel of being involve in the community in fun way such as Ice Cream Day, Card Game Tournament, Outdoor Adventure, Paint Night, and Movie Night. Huddle also provides support in youth employment. Newcomer youth can benefit from employment assistance from the organization, since the assistance is from the perspective of youth.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering is one of the best ways for you to get to know the community, the resources and services available, opportunities for employment, and gain networks and Canadian work experience.

Volunteering is considered as a work experience in Canada.

Below are some organizations that can benefit from your help:

Big Brothers & Sisters

Big Brothers Big Sisters Westman – Championing the health and well-being of youth

Brandon Community Welcome

Facebook Brandon Community Welcome Co-op Inc

Contact: 204-728-1514

Brandon Friendship Centre

Brandon Friendship Centre

Contact: 204-727-1407

Brandon General Museum and Achieves

Volunteer Opportunities – Brandon General Museum and Archives

Brandon John Howard Society

BrandonJohnHoward – Social Services, Human Services, Justice

Elspeth Reid Centre

Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre – CFS Western

Contact: 204-726-6280

Food for Thought (School BreakfastProgram)

Brandon’s Food For Thought

Contact: 204-727-1040

Habitat for Humanity Brandon

Volunteer in Brandon – Habitat

Helping Hands Soup Kitchen

Helping Hands Brandon

Contact:  204-727-4635

MCC Thrift Store

MCC Thrift | MCC Thrift

Contact:  204-727-1162

 

 

Prairie Mountain Health

Volunteer Services – Prairie Mountain Health

Re-store

Habitat ReStore – Habitat

Contact: 204-728-2227

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army Brandon

Contact: 204-727-6271

Samaritan House Ministries

Volunteer | Samaritan-House

Contact: 204-726-0758

United Way Brandon

Volunteer Opportunities — United Way Brandon & District

Westman Immigrant Services

Volunteer Opportunities – WIS

Contact: 204-727-6031

Westman Women’s Shelter

Contact: 204-727-3644

Women’s Resource Centre

Volunteer Opportunities | The Women’s Resource Centre

Youth for Christ

Youth for Christ Westman (yfc.ca)

Contact: Dwayne Dyck 204-727-1251

YMCA

YMCA Brandon Volunteer – YMCA Brandon

Contact: 204-727-5456

YWCA

YWCA Westman

Contact: 204-571-3680

Sports Activities and Clubs

Parks in Brandon

There are parks/greenspaces all over the city check: City of Brandon – Parks & Greenspaces

In the summer the Spray Parks and Paddle Pools are open: City of Brandon – Spray Parks & Paddle Pools

If your family wants to try or knows skateboarding check: City of Brandon – Skate Plaza

There are fun things to try and places to go in the winter check:

City of Brandon – Skating Oval, Ski & Snowmobile Trails, Toboggan Hills, and Outdoor Rinks.

There playgrounds all over the city check the ones nears you on: City of Brandon – Play Structures

If your family enjoys walking and biking check the trails: City of Brandon – Walking and Bike Trails

Try the outdoor fitness equipment. Check City of Brandon – Outdoor Fitness Equipment to find the one nearest you.

If later your family decides to have a dog, there are dog parks in the city: City of Brandon – Dog Parks

In Brandon, if your family and friends want to use the parks for your large gatherings you can let the city know by sending in your request City of Brandon – Bookings & Rentals the booking is to make sure that there are no conflicting events taking place in the park.

Understanding Provincial and Federal Governance

Canada has three levels of government:

The federal government is responsible for issues that affect Canada as a whole country such as international relations, immigration, criminal law, taxes, national defence, and foreign policy.

      • Member of Parliament: Hon. Larry Maguire

Constituency Office Brandon – Souris: Home | Larry Maguire

The provincial government is responsible for issues that affect the province as a whole. These include education, health care, the environment, agriculture and highways.

The Role of the Provincial Government – Manitoba Government

  • Administer and deliver services such as health care, education, social assistance, child care, road maintenance and upgrading
  • Funded mainly through federal government and taxes

Premier of the Province of Manitoba

Leader of the government caucus in the Legislative Assembly and head of the cabinet or executive of government

MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly)

  • The role of legislator who supports or opposes the enactment of new laws
  • Serves as a representative of his or her constituency
  • A member of an elected party caucus, which involves supporting the caucus and its decisions
  • Serves as a Cabinet Minister or Opposition Critic

The city or town council decides on by-laws that deal with issues concerning their community such as public parks, libraries, social services, local police and fire services, garbage removal, recycling, and public transportation.

Role of the Municipal Government – City of Brandon

  • Deliver services such as water, sanitation and sewers, road maintenance, fire and ambulance, and garbage collection
  • Governed by City Council, which consists of 10 city ward representatives and is headed by the Mayor, who also serves as the Chief Officer of the city
  • Council duties include
    • enactment of by-laws
    • current and capital budgets, setting the mill rate
    • fees for civic services and facilities
    • department head appointments
    • contract approvals
    • legislation requests and land purchases
call us

204-729-2490

email us

admin@bnrc.ca

Address

440 Rosser Avenue, Brandon, MB R7A 0K3

Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation envisions a vibrant, healthy, sustainable neighborhood of empowered stakeholders, successful community projects, and partnering organizations.

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The BNRC is located on unceded Treaty 2 Territory – the land of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Assiniboine, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and homeland of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge harms, past and present, and we dedicate our efforts to community development that supports reconciliation and collaboration.

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