Leaf Rapids residents call for government help amid ‘humanitarian crisis’ (opens original article in a new tab)

Residents of Leaf Rapids, Manitoba, are calling for government intervention amid a humanitarian crisis marked by violence, inadequate water, food insecurity, and declining community infrastructure. The town has faced long-term challenges including a boil water advisory and economic decline after a mine closure, with recent violence and a threatened grocery store closure exacerbating the situation.

• Residents of Leaf Rapids, Manitoba, describe their town as in 'absolute chaos' due to violence, lack of clean water, and food insecurity
• An open letter to Manitoba and federal governments requests intervention following a week of violence including murder and arson
• The town has been under a boil water advisory since 2013 and faces closure of its only grocery store
• Leaf Rapids has experienced decline since the closure of its copper and zinc mine in 2002 and a 2025 wildfire displaced residents