Poverty and poverty reduction strategies

CPJ’s Envisioning Canada Without Poverty campaign has ended. We thank CPJ members and supporters for contacting their MPs and sharing the important message that poverty must be addressed. Thanks to you, the campaign was a success. For new opportunities to get involved in the fight against poverty, check out CPJ’s new campaign: Dignity for All.

1 in 10 Canadians live in poverty. For these Canadians, poverty is about more than lack of income – it is also lack of access to well-being. These Canadians do not have a sustainable livelihood, and they are prevented from fully participating in community life. Poverty has a heavy price for individuals and their families and communities. It also exacts a heavy toll on Canadian society.

More importantly, poverty undermines the dignity of humans created in the image of God. This is a significant public justice concern. We can also do something about it.

While all sectors of society can and should be involved in combating poverty, government can take a leadership role. A comprehensive anti-poverty strategy would make a significant difference in the lives of the millions of poor Canadians. This poverty reduction strategy should include a vision with measurable targets and timelines, an action plan and a budget, mechanisms of accountability and poverty indicators to monitor progress.

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