UBCM to vote on a poverty reduction resolution
BC Poverty Reduction Coalition bcpovertyreduction.ca
WHISTLER, BC, Sept. 28 /CNW/ - On Wednesday, September 29th at the Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities, municipal leaders in BC will have an opportunity to send a message to the provincial government that municipalities can't be left on their own to deal with the impacts of high poverty levels. Resolution B51, brought forward by White Rock City Council, highlights "the need to provide adequate and accessible income support for the non-employed, improve the earnings and working conditions of those in the low-wage workforce and improve food security for low-income individuals and families."
Demonstrating the widespread concern about BC's high rate of poverty, UBCM resolutions were also submitted by city councils in Vancouver, Victoria, Nelson, Grand Forks, and Parksville. The devastating costs of poverty in our local communities, and the need for provincial leadership and coordination, was recognized by these councils who pointed to, "increased health care costs, higher crime, higher demand for community, social and charitable services, lack of school readiness, reduced school success, and lower economic productivity." (Resolutions C32-36)
Poverty reduction is a priority for British Columbians and their municipal representatives are hearing that. They're ready to make sure the province hears it too.
"Cities all over BC know that the number one way to fight poverty is to build affordable housing at all levels. The Province needs to start working with us now in a meaningful way, it's the only way we can tackle poverty once and for all." -- Councillor Ellen Woodsworth, Vancouver
For further information:
or to request an interview contact:
Seth Klein, BC Poverty Reduction Coalition, (604) 836-2272
Councillor Ellen Woodsworth, Vancouver City Council, (604) 328-8230
Councillor Sue Powell, Parksville City Council, (250) 951-1082
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