IRCOM

The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba Inc. (IRCOM) is a non-profit organization that operates a transitional housing complex in downtown Winnipeg called IRCOM House Ellen. IRCOM House offers secure, affordable and clean apartments to newcomer families for up to 3 years after their arrival. In addition IRCOM provides onsite supports and services including an After-School Program for children and youth, An Asset Building Program for those interested in learning about money in the Canadian context and participating in a matched savings program as well as a Community Resource Program that connects community members with employment, education, and various health resources throughout Winnipeg. IRCOM also runs the Newcomer Literacy Initiative which consists of daily English as an Additional Language classes with free childcare available. IRCOM House is home to families from diverse cultural, educational, linguistic and professional backgrounds. Current residents of IRCOM come from Afghanistan, Bhutan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, India, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Kazakhstan, Liberia, Morocco, Pakistan, the Philippines, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Sudan. IRCOM is guided by a volunteer board of directors and is funded through a variety of sources. Key supporters include the City of Winnipeg Community Services Department, Manitoba Immigration and Multiculturalism, RBC, United Way Winnipeg, and Rogers Communications.