I thank the organizers of the Guelph and Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination for the tremendous work they are doing in our community.
http://gwpoverty.ca/index.php/question-municipal-election-candidates-about-local-food-insecurity/
It is every person's right to have a roof over their head and food on the table. It is unfortunate though that this isn't reality. I know the threat only too well. Living on an artist's income is a very modest lifestyle. I had the privilge of living in the Matrix Building a geared to income scenario at 141 Woolwich street from 1996 to 2003. This was a definite reality check. I witnessed difficult situations. I also witnessed people extremely proud of their first time appartment, in a new, well kept building. The great thing was that it brought together a wide range of residents and it created a real sense of belonging, pride and community.
We need more affordable housing and we need to intigrate people from all walks of life to reflect true communities, and encourage a sense of belonging.
http://gwpoverty.ca/index.php/projects/theseed/
this is direct from the site referred to above
The Seed Community Food Hub Committee is a collaborative initiative, supported by the Guelph & Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination, aimed at creating a space to bring people together with food to improve health, community, access and advocacy efforts.
The Seed will provide emergency food access in a dignified setting that allows people to regain their self-worth. People learn cooking and gardening skills there, and kids develop positive attitudes towards healthy foods. Community members find their voices on the issues that matter most to them, and people find friends and support.
I think that the Stop Community Food Centre is an excellent inspiration
http://www.thestop.org/
I support a living wage as described here
http://gwpoverty.ca/index.php/projects/the-living-wage-campaign/
What is a living wage?
The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) defines the living wage as “the hourly rate at which a household can meet its basic needs, once government transfers have been added to the family’s income (such as the Universal Child Care Benefit) and deductions have been subtracted (such as income taxes and Employment Insurance premiums).”
The living wage, which is calculated based on a modest budget, aims to support people working full-time to meet basic living expenses, support the healthy development of their children, lift them out of poverty, and allow them to fully participate in work, family life, and community activities.
How much is a living wage?
The living wage in Guelph & Wellington is $15.95/hour.
