Winnipeg, MB - Mayor Sam Katz congratulated the Sierra Leone Nationals Association of Manitoba (SALNAM) at the grand opening of the organization’s new resource centre on Tuesday afternoon.
“I believe this resource centre will provide meaningful assistance to newcomers, engage youth, and be a real blessing to the community,” said Mayor Katz. “I am pleased to be able to share in this happy occasion and to help SALNAM’s dream become a reality.”
The creation of the SALNAM Resource Centre was supported with a grant for $27,289.50 through the Mayor’s civic initiatives fund in June 2010.
The centre, located at 251 Henderson Highway, is a “dream come true” for the not-for-profit organization and the result of many years of planning and fundraising. Its mandate is to serve Winnipeg’s Sierra Leonean community with a wide range of programs and services designed to help newcomers integrate into Canadian society, while promoting the rich culture of Sierra Leone.
"On behalf of the Executive Council of SALNAM and the entire Sierra Leone community in Winnipeg, I would like to thank Mayor Katz for his leadership and support, which has meant so much to this project,” said Allieu Sesay, President of SALNAM. “We are glad to work together to make Winnipeg one of the best cities to live, work, and raise a family. Together we can make a difference!"
Programs offered at the centre include providing resources and support to newcomers, educational programs for youth, literacy and employment programs for adults, computer training, and recreation. In addition, the centre provides mentorship and a snack program for youth, and a place to learn more about their heritage. Doors to the centre are open to all interested Winnipeggers.
The Sierra Leone Nationals Association of Manitoba was formed in 1980. For more information on SALNAM and its programs, please visit http://www.salnam.ca/ .