THE HISTORY OF THE HENDERSON BUILDING
It received the prestigious Winnipeg Heritage Preservation Award in 2009
The Immigrant Centre has occupied the premises since 2009
Welcome to the Immigrant Centre’s website, where history intertwines with community in the heart of Winnipeg. As proud hosts of the Doors Open Winnipeg event, we are thrilled to welcome you to explore our vibrant space. This year holds special significance for us as we celebrate 75 years of serving newcomers in our beloved city, coinciding with the City of Winnipeg’s momentous 150th anniversary. We recognize and celebrate the fact that our history is deeply connected, as this city was built by newcomers like those we continue to welcome today.
Our journey began in 1948, amidst the post-World War II era, when refugees sought refuge in Winnipeg. Recognizing the urgent need for support, the New Canadians Committee laid the foundation for what would become the Immigrant Centre. Fast forward to the early 1960s, where Sonja Roeder, Mary Panaro, and Genevieve Brownell led the charge, envisioning a sanctuary where immigrants could find not just assistance but also belonging. Thus, in 1969, the International Centre emerged, offering newcomers a place to connect, learn, and thrive.
In 2009, a significant milestone marked our journey as we found a new home within the historic Henderson Building. This move followed extensive renovations that breathed new life into the building’s storied halls. Recognized for its architectural significance, the Henderson Building received the prestigious Heritage Winnipeg Preservation Award, solidifying its status as a cherished landmark. Since then, the Immigrant Centre has proudly occupied this iconic space, continuing our mission of serving newcomers to Manitoba and preserving the rich heritage of our city.
Today, our headquarters at 100 Adelaide Street serves as an entrance to the same historic Henderson Building, where we annually serve over 20,000 newcomers, offering programs tailored to their evolving needs. As we prepare to participate in Doors Open Winnipeg 2024, we invite you to step inside our doors and explore the stories etched into the walls of our building. Join us on May 25th as we open our doors to the public, offering guided tours and insights into the vibrant culture of our city.
Whether you’re a newcomer, a long-time resident, or simply curious, Doors Open Winnipeg as your opportunity to celebrate the rich tapestry of our shared history. As we embark on this collective journey, we invite you to become part of our story. Together, let’s honor the past, embrace the present, and build a brighter future for all who call Winnipeg home.
Imagining the early days of the Immigrant Centre: