Immigrant women will experience a smoother integration into Newfoundland and Labrador society through a $20,000 grant for the Multicultural Women�s Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador from the Provincial Government.

With this funding, the organization plans to implement activities to improve living conditions for immigrant women through self-esteem counseling, achievement of economic independence and enhancement of well-being through recreational activities.

"We want to ensure that Newfoundland and Labrador is a warm and welcoming place and this funding will help support immigrant women as they start new lives here," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. "We are pleased to help this important organization offer services related to gender equality and women�s empowerment for immigrant women in our province."

The activities will include case management, outreach and counseling. The organization will also focus on strategies to assist immigrant women integrate socially, educationally and economically in their new homes. Pilot programs and income-generating activities will also enable women to achieve a level of self-reliance and social and economic empowerment.

"As part of our provincial immigration strategy, we are working to provide funding for programs that assist immigrants," said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment. "These new residents enrich the culture in our province and our government recognizes the importance of providing assistance as they transition to their new lives here."

The organization has also identified the need to offer recreational and wellness sessions to their clients. Activities ranging from story-telling, educational movies, exercising, meditation and games will bring fun and relaxation into the lives of the women they serve.

"These kinds of activities promote mental and physical well being and are crucial to those who have come to the province alone and need that extra mental support," said Minister Dunderdale. "Others who came to the province with their families need a break as well from the daily stresses and challenges of raising their family in a new culture. Through this funding, we hope to help women who have immigrated to our province reach their full potential."

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