Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says the province remains open to people leaving the United States amid concerns about violence south of the border, while frontline agencies say they are prepared to respond if arrivals increase.

“For us, we will always be a welcoming place for humanitarian reasons,” said Wab Kinew, premier of Manitoba.

Kinew’s comments come after two people were shot by Border Patrol agents in Minnesota, roughly eight hours from Winnipeg. He said the situation was discussed at a recent first ministers meeting in Ottawa.

“Because of that, it just means we have a compassionate heart and have a humane response. So, if folks in Minnesota, or anywhere in the States are looking to leave, I’d welcome them in Manitoba, I’d welcome them in Canada,” Kinew said.

Community organizations say they are monitoring the situation closely. Kevin Hunter, vice-president of philanthropy, marketing and government relations with the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg, said organizations on both sides of the border have been in contact.

“For us, first and foremost, it’s just so incredibly sad to see families impacted by current events in the United States, so our hearts go out to everybody,” said Kevin Hunter, vice-president of philanthropy, marketing and government relations, YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg.

Hunter said the organization is ready to support anyone seeking safety.

“We really pride ourselves in being that welcoming and safe space in these types of situations and that’s exactly what the communities need most,” Hunter said.

According to the Canada Border Services Agency, there were 1,129 asylum applications across Canada as of Jan. 25, down 39 per cent from 1,852 during the same period last year. Manitoba recorded three applications, compared with 14 during the same timeframe in 2025. The United States ranks second only to Haiti in the citizenship of asylum claimants.

Local officials near the border say resources will be critical if numbers rise. David Carlson, reeve of the Municipality of Emerson-Franklin, said there has been no immediate increase in claims but preparation is necessary.

“If that’s the case, then we’re going to need the resources to deal with it,” said David Carlson, reeve of the Municipality of Emerson-Franklin.

“I would hope if the province is putting out the invitation, that there’s some kind of plan in place to be able to shelter and look after these folks. We’re obviously a welcoming community of people, but you can only do what you can do with the resources that you have,” Carlson said.

In a statement, the CBSA said current volumes of refugee claims at Manitoba entry points have not triggered contingency plans, but the agency is prepared to activate them if needed.

Manitoba agencies say they are ready as Kinew welcomes people fleeing U.S. violence