Join this cool study that involves practicing online banking tasks in a risk-free web-based platform called BankBox using fake accounts and fake money. Specifically designed to support older adults in learning online banking!

Try BankBox simulation here!

Learn more about the study!  (Ce lien n’existe qu’en anglais.)

Study done by: Dr. Celine Latulipe, Department of Computer Science, University of Manitoba ([email protected]) 
Mehran Hossain, Research Assistant, Department of Computer Science, University of Manitoba ([email protected]). 

Please feel free to direct your questions or feedback to the researchers mentioned above.  

Participaction

Physical activity is essential to maintaining good health and overall well-being. Despite the many benefits of daily movement, including improved mental health, increased energy and reduced risk of chronic diseases, physical activity levels in Canada remain low. Why is this? And what can we do in our community to better support an active life? 

Participaction Canada has put together a report that breaks down what is preventing people from living active lifestyles, across generations. In this report, you can identify strategies to break down barriers and support all generations to engage in daily movement! 

English Report 

Francophonie month is a time to celebrate the language, culture, and contributions of Francophone communities across the province. It’s an opportunity to recognize Manitoba’s rich French heritage and the vibrant communities that continue to shape its identity.

Learn more about the history, events and programs throughout the month of March!

Tax season is almost here! 

Need help with your taxes?

Through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), community organizations host free tax clinics where volunteers complete tax returns for people with a modest income and a simple tax situation. 

Find a free Tax Clinic service (Virtual or In-person) 

Local Free Tax clinics available across SH-SS regions: 

• Carman (By appointment only):  204-745-6611 or   431-344-0210
• RM of Piney (In-person by appointment only):   204-425-5118 
• RM of De Salaberry (In-person only, available for seniors only):   204-347-5652 
• MacGregor (In-person, priority given to food bank clients and those who are receiving EIA):  204-685-2977
• Portage la Prairie (In-person or drop offs available):  204-857-6304 (ext. 224)
• Ste. Anne (In-person drop offs only):  204-422-7020 
• St. Pierre & RM of De Salaberry (In-person drop-offs only):   204-433-3340 
• St. Claude & Rathwell (In-person or drop offs available):  204-379-2883
• Steinbach (In-person or drop offs only):  204-989-1918
• Steinbach (In-person drop ins):  204-380-2692

Please note: The local free tax services are only available to the residents of the region unless mentioned otherwise. 

Automatic Tax Filing (SimpleFile)

Automatic tax filing helps eligible individuals file their taxes without having to complete a full return themselves. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) uses the information it already has (such as income slips and benefit data) to assess eligibility for benefits and credits. 

This option is designed to support people who: 

• Have low or modest incomes 
• Have simple tax situations 
• May face barriers to filing taxes on their own 

The CRA is inviting individuals to use the SimpleFile by Phone service starting March 9, 2026. With SimpleFile, you only need to answer a series of quick questions, and then the service uses your answers, with the information we have on file, to auto-file and process a tax return on your behalf.  

This service is offered in three different ways:  

• By phone (with CRA invitation only) 
• In paper format (with CRA invitation only) 
• Digitally (with or without invitation) 

Learn more!

The government is introducing the Canada groceries and Essentials Benefit, replacing the GST credit.  

As a result of that:  

• A family of four could receive up to $1,890 this year and about $1,400 annually for the next four years. 
• A single individual could receive up to $950 this year and about $700 annually for the next four years. 

This benefit will provide additional financial support to over 12 million Canadians. 

Learn more about this news release! 

Applications for grant funding will be accepted until March 31, 2026. 

 Summary of the grant program: 

• Grants for up to $50,000 are available for projects that propose to repair public lands and trails that have been damaged by off-road vehicle activity (such as ATVs, snowmobiles or motorbikes).  
• Public lands and trails can include open areas, as well as trails open to motorized and / or non-motorized uses. The project area must have been damaged by ORV activity (tracks, ruts, erosion, etc).  
• Groups in MB that are eligible to apply for funding include: 
  • Non-profit organizations 
  • Municipalities and municipal entities 
  • Indigenous communities and organizations 
• The project completion date is January 1, 2027.  
• Grant funding can be used to reimburse costs for contractors, heavy equipment rentals and operations, materials and supplies such as aggregate material and barriers to prevent further ORV damage. 

The application form and guide can also be found on the Trails Office webpage and may be submitted to [email protected].    

March 16th-20^th

When it comes to inclusion, neurodiversity refers to a world where neurological differences are recognized and respected as all other human variations. 

Depending on how our brains are wired we think, move, process information and communicate in different ways. Many people use neurodiversity as an umbrella term used to describe alternative thinking styles. But regardless of labels, neurodiversity is about recognizing those who think differently. No matter whether you are a school, university or organization you can benefit from different thinkers!  March 16^th-20^th is Neurodiversity Awareness Week. Lexxic has a wide variety of webinars to help you and your community members better understand neurodiversity including inclusive language, empowerment, youth perspectives, intersectionality, and so much more!

Check out the 2025 recorded webinars or access the 2026 events.

Observed on March 31 to honour, celebrate and promote the revitalization of over 70 unique Indigenous languages.

Created in 1989 by the Assembly of First Nations, this day highlights the critical role of language in preserving culture, history and identity.

It serves as a reminder of the need to support the reclamation of languages by Indigenous communities.   

Video stories – Language Champions and Language Learners of all ages

Designed specifically for the agriculture community and provides counselling services delivered by professionals with agricultural literacy

Its counsellors understand the unique stressors farmers, farm families and agricultural employees face, including extreme weather events, market volatility, rising input costs, labour challenges and the demands of running multi-generational family operations, while providing targeted supports to address those stressors. 

Built on principles of accessibility, confidentiality and agricultural literacy, the program provides timely, no-cost counselling tailored to farmers, their families and farm employees. It reduces barriers to support by offering flexible, farmer-centred care, helping participants manage financial pressures, family conflicts, operational stress or personal well-being challenges. 

Access more information and support. 

Do you consider yourself an ‘indoorsy’ person during the winter months? 

Winter can be challenging—it’s dark, cold, and snowy. However, breaking down these challenges can help us discover practical ways to shift our mindset. 

We know we benefit when we get outside and connect with others, when winter makes us feel isolated. Park groups across Canada are helping to find the light in the dark, warmth in the cold and a ball in the snow. 

Check out some ideas on how your community can animate your park in the winter!