This story is part of Welcome to Canada, a CBC News series about immigration told through the eyes of the people who have experienced it.

A federal immigration program that's responsible for much of Manitoba's recent population growth is facing a severe cut. 

Manitoba is only receiving 4,750 nominee slots through the provincial nominee program this year — which is half of the number it was allotted last year.

Each nomination could represent an entire family, as chosen applicants can bring their sp…