Manitoba has extended its support to two Palestinian children from Gaza, offering life-saving medical care unavailable due to the devastating effects of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Premier Wab Kinew personally welcomed the first child, an 11-year-old boy, and his mother upon their arrival in Winnipeg on January 16, 2025.
Premier Kinew expressed pride in Manitoba’s tradition of compassion, emphasizing the province’s commitment to helping those in need. “In times of conflict, famine, and natural disaster, we have always stood up to help the innocent. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to humanity,” he said.
The young boy, suffering from a genetic condition that cannot be treated in Gaza, is the first of two children selected for care in Manitoba. The second child is expected to arrive in the coming weeks. The province collaborated with Doctors Without Borders and the federal government to ensure the children and their families receive the medical attention and support they need.
Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, commended Manitoba’s leadership. He noted that while private sponsors and hospitals in other provinces have stepped up in similar situations, Manitoba’s full governmental support sets a new standard for humanitarian aid. “It shows how leadership can transform lives,” Miller said.
The children will receive three months of temporary federal health coverage, after which Manitoba will assume the costs. In addition to medical care, financial and social support, including housing, clothing, education, and language training, will be provided to help the families settle into their new environment.
Community organizations, including the Manitoba Islamic Association, have been instrumental in welcoming the families. The association has committed to supporting them for three years, ensuring they can adapt to life in Manitoba. “We are proud to be part of Manitoba’s history, welcoming these families with open arms,” said Hakim Ghulam, board chairperson of the association.
Since the Israel-Hamas war began in October 2023, Gaza has seen over 110,000 injuries and 46,000 deaths, one-third of whom were children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Premier Kinew’s efforts highlight Manitoba’s role as a leader in humanitarian action, setting an example for other provinces and nations to follow.
“Manitoba stands as a beacon of human rights and compassion,” Kinew stated. “While we welcome these children, we also hope for a day when peace and safety allow them to return home. Should they choose to stay, they will always have a place here in Manitoba.”
This initiative reflects Manitoba’s enduring legacy of compassion, uniting government, community, and international organizations in a powerful demonstration of humanity.
