MANS branches out

The Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia (MANS) is branching out to rural Nova Scotia.

MANS has initiated a program to bring ethnocultural/immigrant and founding community members together, in hopes of creating a framework for welcoming diverse communities.

The combined Lunenburg and Queens County area is one of five across Nova Scotia that MANS is initiating.

The newly formed Councils, with initial funding help from MANS, will help create opportunities for newcomers to the regions. Some key areas include social support systems to help with health, education and job opportunities in more rural areas.

MANS says that immigrants to rural areas will help communities grow. When they arrive, along with their knowledge comes need for housing, services and other demands that will help grow the rural economies.

Another goal of the Council is to increase communication between newcomers and founding communities, to increase a sense of belonging, cooperation and help reduce isolation.

MANS says there exists an urgent need to make rural Nova Scotia attractive for newcomers to settle. The Councils that are set up in the communities would work together with MANS to help make rural Nova Scotia an attractive place for immigrants and newcomers.

Locals can get involved as well. MANS is encouraging citizens interested in the welfare and growth of the community, or those interested in raising awareness to contact the Councils.

If you are interested in more information about the Council, contact Amber McConnell, the Community Canvasser for Queens & Lunenburg Counties by phone at 902-354-2616 or e-mail at comcanl@mans.ns.ca.