Manitoba Welcomes Gaza Child for Medical Care; Calls for Support from Other Provinces

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On January 16, 2025, an 11-year-old boy from Gaza arrived in Winnipeg, Manitoba, accompanied by his mother, to receive specialized medical treatment. The Manitoba government provided crucial support for their arrival, and Premier Wab Kinew personally welcomed them at the airport. Kinew emphasized Manitoba's commitment to humanitarian assistance during conflicts, stating, "We have always been a people who stand up during times of conflict and famine."

The child, whose identity remains confidential due to privacy concerns, has a genetic condition that cannot be adequately treated in his home region. Kinew noted that the boy expressed a desire to study engineering in the future and is missing his family back in Gaza, whom he has not seen for over a year.

Federal Minister of Immigration Marc Miller remarked that this marks the first instance of a provincial government fully endorsing the arrival of children from Gaza for medical care, although similar initiatives have occurred in other provinces through private sponsorships. He encouraged more provinces to participate, highlighting the significant impact of official government backing.

The initiative was facilitated with the assistance of Doctors Without Borders in Egypt, and non-profit organizations in Manitoba have stepped forward to provide housing and support for the family. Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023, numerous children have traveled abroad for medical assistance.

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