The massive avalanche of snow from which Winnipeggers are trying to dig themselves out may seem like a burden to many, but for one local organization dedicated to finding work for refugees and other new Canadians, it is an opportunity.
Hire a refugeeOmar Rahimi told Global News that clearing snow was an excellent entry for newcomers looking to get into the workforce.
“I wanted a way to help people get jobs and a better life here, so we started a program – something that does not require a lot of skill, like snowballing,” Rahimi said.
“We tried to teach people to kick snow and make money at the same time.
“This year we have prayed for snow, but now it is too much… that is good. We have a lot of people from Iraq and Syria and other countries (who are looking for work). I speak four languages, so it’s easier for me to get them into the workforce. ”
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Despite the icy weather and heavy snow, Rahimi said his team is ready and able to help anytime and anywhere.
“We help everyone – anyone who needs help to kick, please call us. At any time of the day or night, we put them to work as much as possible. Even though we are really tired now, we are still moving forward.
“We need a lot of help in the labor market in Manitoba – whether it is digging, demolition, other work. We need people to come here from those countries to take those positions because we already have a lot of qualified people doing other work.
“It was great for women, for men, for young people who come here.”
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Reference-globalnews.ca