Got something to say? PACC members send your bulletins, statements, letters, articles, repostings -

PACC's new webpage on MAKE POVERTY HISTORY SITE 2008
http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/en/groups/newmarket

Make poverty history call how to organize an all candidates meeting for the upcoming election.You can read and download an MP3 recording of the call here: http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/en/blog/how-organize-all-candidates-meeting

PACC assisted award winning series- "Below the line" series
http://www.yorkregion.com/news/belowtheline

liberal poverty strategy sent by member Kim
http://www.nugget.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=873647&auth=MARIA%20CALABRESE

Tell Premier Mcguinty your thoughts!http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/feedback/

Announcing!! Operation Sparrow for low income families in Newmarket and Aurora - Join your kids into karate, theatre, other organized local activities / transportation to/from! 905-716-1447 or see "Get Involved"

Submitted Poem read at Oct 17 Fairy Lake Park Newmarket
by Christos Hambides

In despair we walk our heads downcast,
The world walks by and looks away,
May help if they see us not, we'll go away,
In this way they feel no remorse nor any need to help,

They do not know our pain or despair,
Nor do they feel compelled to share,
So on we go each weary day, not knowing if we'll eat today,
The lack of food is not our only plague,
For many are without a home, thus in a cardboard box we sleep alone,

Our clothes are torn and worn threadbare,
And the affluent around us still don't care,
In a world of plenty and so much excess,
We, the hungry, are the world's dispossessed,

The poor they say are with us always,
But being poor is not our greatest bane,
It's an empty stomach and hunger that causes pain,
We see that others waste so much,
They seem not to care that we could give thanks for just a crust,

Hunger knows no boundaries,
It knows no creed or race,
And the only food we'll eat today,
Is from your money and good grace,

And so my friends search your hearts
and feel our pain and despair,
Then into your pockets dig deep,
Then we the hungry you will feed.

Story submission:

The Pursuit of Happyness

A true story

I was grateful to attend a pre-release of Will Smith's movie about a homeless Dad's journey (based on true story) through struggles called, The Pursuit of Happyiness, at Silver City in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. Myself being a single Dad, thought this a perfect fit for a night out. Tickets were allotted to various homeless advocates for distribution, and as luck would have it, I happened upon 16 on the day of. I assured Jane (Wedlock) of the York Region Alliance to End Homelessness that I would do my best to find appreciative recipients, and being schooled in film I also promised a review.

The first call made, was to someone whose life has been dealt more than it's share of cruelty, a cancer survivor who is additionally a single mom and a crime victim. I also knew her reality (Ontario Disability Support Plan budget) was that she'd have to bring all her kids in order to be able to go - just fine this night! I'd wager she'd not been out with three of her boys at once to a movie in some time.

The second call was to a similarly budgeted blind "Buddy" of mine (ours), who to my ignorant surprise loves movies - despite not being able to see. Another invitee was an immigrant couple that was, ironically enough, being evicted at the time. I told " Pedro" we'd help him fight it as best we could... he said his wife was ashamed...stigma.. but still they came along.

My son Tim went too, as did a second single mom (of 4), a victim of domestic violence who's experienced the shelter system, and her friend who also happened to be a volunteer at the Inn From The Cold Shelter where she told me they needed people to volunteer desperately. "Steve" wanted to come, but didn't, what with local transit service being infrequent and difficult for him. He's in a (motorized) wheelchair. Too far (from home) he said. Steve doesn't like being helped into/out cars either, it's called pride.. Parents-in-law- to- be came instead, but at any rate, what a motley crew we made!

I seated my visually impaired pal, and floated in and out to unload the last pairs of tickets & scoop some popcorn, barely having time to acknowledge event Hosts, former Mayor (Newmarket) Tom Taylor and Inn From The Cold V.P. (and now Councillor) Victor Woodhouse before scampering back to my seat.

Afterwards, as we nonchalantly made our way to the cars discussing the flick, one of our crew, we'll call her "Lucy", dropped her car (house, locker, etc) keys into the sewer grate. This is where a fun evening turned bizarre.

I knew the grates could, so I pulled it open but it was dark with no stairs, and the murky water was too far to reach.
" What about my umbrella" said Lucy? Too short.
" What about my Cane" said my blind buddy? It reached, barely.

Now it was raining, with no light.

"Theatres always have Flashlights", said I!.. A flash of brilliance having suddenly surged through my feeble brain... We swooped inside.

Upon returning, I found Councillor Woodhouse had caught wind and had also offered help. As I lay there, flashlight in one hand and cane in another, I realized I could maximize my reach lying on my back. Too bad I was wearing my "good" jacket. It began to look bleak as time marched on and now back inside the theatre, Buddy literally prayed (and 'Lucy" I found out later) that I'd snag them. No one left though. Victor (Councillor Woodhouse) had just offered to go home and retrieve a metal magnet when I spied a brief glimpse of the rope key-chain! All I had to do was turn the cane slowly to trap it!

"Steady" called the Woodster! "I got it!" shrieked the Tomster, "Yay!" we all yelled, "What a team!" We thanked Victor as he exited to his vehicle, everyone laughing. It was an absolutely bizarre ending to the night. Lucy erupted in elation upon hearing the news! Alas, another PACC coupe! A rare, victorious, cooperative effort, between a politician and a poverty group! Ha.

..... Oh yea, the movie. My son liked it... I thought it was more hype than substance. I had desperately wanted to be moved (by it) but, alas, was not. Sniff.. But that parking lot deal, now that was powerful stuff! We capped the night off with Pizza betweens fits of laughter, as "Lucy' stayed true to form by spilling her pop all over the take-out pizza-parlour floor!

PS: That family lost their eviction fight and were kicked out on the 1st blizzard of the year 2007. Shameful.

Merry X-mas & Happy New Year (Premier) Mcguinty et al, I'm sure your new 25% raises, more than an entire years income for those mentioned above, will assist with that!

'Tis The season, so pick one!

Tom Pearson
PACC (Poverty Action for Change Coalition) Chair

Letter from Tom/PACC in Toronto Star April 31 2007
Please visit link: http://www.thestar.com/article/208644

Operation Sparrow

PACC currently involved in assisting the creation of organizing accessibility to sports and other kids / youths activities via participating a new committee (project sparrow) being set up by concerned community residents and organizational reps. PACC's comitted to ensuring the marginalized kids/families would get full opportunity with the least stigma inducing encounters as possible built in to the application process. The "Operation Sparrow" Committee members would ensure it is done fairly and define its eligibility criteria. PACC members can decide pACCs positions on this prior to each new step taken with the project. Essentially it has started via one Karate school offering up $100,000 dollars worth of karate lessons and outfits (possibly bus passes)for those who couldn't otherwise afford to. The idea essentially is to create criteria and boundaries via a mission statement etc and then to challenge other organizations/sports groups to participate. Watch for an announcement on Oct 17 at newmarkets Fairy Lake Park!

Submission: I recently read about free books for children every month from their birthdate until age 5. Imagination Library- a joint partnership between Canada's Invest in the Kids and Dollywood Foundation. To register open
to all kids in all communities that can secure funding for the purchase and mailing of books. visit www.investinkids.ca or call 1-866-658-1254.
This could help those without money for books. S. Rodgers

Vent Today! Gone Tomorrow!(poverty that is!)
Send your letter directly to the Editor here!
http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/customerservice/lettertoeditor/

or to the Prime Minister
E-mail Address pm@pm.gc.ca

Email Premier Mcguinty ttp://www.premier.gov.on.ca/feedback/

Read below and rant!
Link to recent Welfare report 2006
http://www.ncwcnbes.net/.

This article appeared in the Toronto Star - relates to the
ncbs clawback.

Children bear scars of clawback
Nov. 2, 2006.
by COLIN HUGHES AND MELANIE DIGNAM

MPPs wore purple ribbons in the Ontario
Legislature on Oct. 2 to recognize Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month.

A pressing question was asked about child poverty âEUR" a major social risk factor in child-protection cases âEUR" and the province's practice of clawing back federal child-income benefits.

The federal government provides a National

Child Benefit Supplement (NCBS) to low-income families to reduce child poverty. The province of Ontario deducts, or claws back, up to $1,463 a year of the NCBS from every child on social assistance.


Premier Dalton McGuinty promised to end
the clawback of the NCBS in 2003. So his government was asked: When is it going to honour its promise?

Because of the NCBS clawback, families with children on social assistance are as poor as ever. This is of great concern in child welfare because poverty debilitates families. Consider these typical case scenarios:

A/

single parent's children go to school regularly with little to eat, holes in their shoes, and ripped and tattered clothes. Mom(or Dad) is quite isolated, relies on social assistance, much of which goes for rent, and relies on
food banks.


· A landlord calls the police about a mother and children screaming in their basement apartment. Father, who has addictions, is charged with assault.

Mother leaves with her children to a shelter. She qualifies for welfare but, unable to find affordable housing, returns to an abusive relationship.


B· Grandparents consider taking in a grandchild whose parents cannot provide care. Social assistance provides $221 a month to look after a child in financial
need. But $122 a month in federal child benefits is deducted. The grandparents have small pensions and wonder how they can afford to help.

A decade of inflation and social assistance cuts has deepened poverty and sapped the purchasing power of benefits by about 40 per cent. At the same time, poverty among families on social assistance has been established as one of a number of contributing factors, independent of changes to child welfare policy, to increased referrals and
admissions to Children's Aid Societies.

A University of Western Ontario study of London-area child protection cases found that families on social
assistance are now having much greater trouble coping. Between 1995 (when welfare rates were cut dramatically) and 2001, the rate of children in the London area being admitted into Children's Aid Society care among families
relying on social assistance almost doubled. In addition, the proportion of cases of child neglect where mothers were relying social assistance mushroomed to 86 per cent of cases.

Why deduct federal child income benefits targeted to poor children from families who rely on social assistance?

Apparently it is to lower a "welfare wall," the "wall" arising when social assistance benefits are marginally better than low-paid employment. Notably, single
able-bodied adults are better off if employed full-time than on $536 a month in social assistance.

In reality, the "wall" is about children and the real additional costs and responsibilities of their
daily care. Using child benefits to reduce welfare leaves unemployed parents and their children no better off and at a standard of living that is too low. Do we really want to reduce a "welfare wall" so low-paid work appears more attractive and raise a "child welfare wall" within which children are at a higher degree of risk? What's on the
other side of the "wall" for children? Does employment guarantee children escape poverty? No.

As Campaign 2000 To End Child Poverty reports,
since 1995, the proportion of children living in poverty who have a parent working full-time has doubled to 33 per cent. Indeed, many families living in poverty cycle between welfare and precarious low-paying jobs.

Poverty is the problem. We must reduce poverty overall so parents can raise children in decent and dignified living
conditions, and so children get a good start in life, whether their parents are employed or unemployed. Investing in the next generation is important.

The experiences children have in their formative years have lifelong consequences. Society benefits socially and economically when families raise healthy children.

Our social policies must respond to the presence of children by investing in them, not by neglecting them.
McGuinty should act on promises to end the NCBS clawback and invest in more child care and affordable housing. That would lay the foundation for developing a multi-year, made-in-Ontario poverty reduction strategy, which could
include a new Ontario Child Benefit, to ensure that low-income parents are better off whether they are in the workforce or on social assistance.

Ontario's children deserve no less.

PACC joins ATD Fourth World’s Pan-Canadian Evaluation

After waiting in minus 20 degrees temperatures for over half an hour, I gladly borded the bus to Union Station earlier having met with MP Belinda Stronach. Myself, other PACC members as well representatives of York Region Food Network, and from York Region Alliance to End Homelessness, had all been there to voice concerns and to push forward an idea regarding a “conference” on poverty.

Previously, in a phone call to me, Ms. Stronach had conveyed an interest to participate in such a forum, providing it lead to change - which served PACC’s interests for sure.I left the meeting feeling very upbeat about its outcome and the direction in which we were going.

Upon entering the GO bus it was nice to see the familiar face of Caroline, who would be accompanying me on the long trip to Montreal by train. We had coordinated things that she would board in Newmarket and I in Aurora, so I would have panicked had she not been there.

“Do you have the tickets?” Caroline asked

“ Yup” I managed to gasp, still stiff from the brutal air.

“ How’d it go?” she enquired while stuffing a soft- drink in my hand and a cookie in my mouth.

I’m sure I babbled on for half the bus ride, spewing out enthusiasm with every word.Heck, we had momentum going, a national TV audience interview for PACC on CBC with Andrew Nichol on the day of our event on Oct 17(The International Day for The Eradication of Poverty)sent us into overdrive, using the opportunity to draw attention to domestic poverty and to the square-table forum to find solutions to eradicate/ reduce poverty. This idea/discussion continued on into our Oct 17 event, and included church leaders, marginalized persons, politicians, candidates and others, speaking on the front lawn of York Region headquarters that cold, rainy day, and it had now made its way to the attention of the MP.

We made our way to the VIA departure area and in short order, were en-route. Neither of us had been to Montreal in some time and excitedly looked forward to thrill of being in another province; but we also knew we were there for a reason which was to share and learn from other similar organizations from across Canada at The ATD Fourth World International Day annual evaluation. We were one of only 3 groups representing Ontario and the only one representing any townships in Southern Ontario.

It suddenly dawned on me after arriving at Montreal’s main train depot, that not only were we not 100% clear on who we would be staying with, but that I also had no idea of what the person looked like who was meeting us. After a few uneasy moments, I locked eyes with someone who turned out to be our greeter from ATD Fourth World Movement Canada. Diego, originally from Columbia, smiled wide with a friendly cheshire grin and offered in accented English not typical of French Canadian, that he thought he recognized me from the website picture. Laughing, we collected up our bags as we all made our way into the ‘metro” and after a “short walk”, we were greeted (en francais) with open arms and a hot meal at ATD Fourth World Canada ‘headquarters’ located in an older house near Beaubien “metro’ station. Here we also began crude attempts at conversing en francais, failing miserably. Ha. Passez moi une roll de dinner!

Caroline seemed to attract an instant “admirer” after sketching a dinner guest in one of her famous caricature drawings, and funny enough he babbled on to her non-stop in french,as if she knew what he was saying, long after he was told she didn’t. He was a harmless older fella and likely one taken in from the cold that night. Caroline was absolutely hilarious in her attempts to converse with what little french she remembered from school with him, but her pictures spoke an international language and were well received by all!

After eating, Diego and now others we’d met, informed us of where we’d be staying. I knew we were being billeted, but was unsure of with who or where. I suppose I had thought that we’d likely be staying with some ‘rich’ local volunteers. Maybe someone who could show me the town for one evening, which was all I’d have free. Staying with nuns was not exactly what I had envisioned. Ha!

We were spirited away at 10 PM halfway again back across town (thank god in a car this time! Ha!) to "Nun Central", at a place called "Maison Orleans", which is I believe a type of shelter with self contained units and located in a poorer section of Montreal. It was beautiful! 5 star! Ha! And the sisters were fantastic with offerings of toast and eggs and cheese, cereal, coffee etc in the morning! Merci! Sister Lisette spoke a little English, and would translate our words during conversations to the other elderly but spry sister (who’s name escapes me). Regardless they were fantastic and welcomed us back anytime!

Next morning, we trudged off to the subway, sorry metro, on our own, PACC display materials in tow. After a rocky start (our bus was half an hour late.. Montrealers have likely heard English cussing now!) and another ‘short walk”, we arrived at the location for the Canada- wide International Day evaluation.

The Oct 17 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was first recognized by The ATD Fourth World out of France, prior even to the U.N. recognizing it. ATD Fourth World was founded in 1957 in a camp for homeless families and now has movements running in 24 countries with correspondents in over 100. They use the national evaluation as a means for groups to aid each other by sharing what is working for them and what isn’t.

Many ideas were floated evaluation day that we hope to bring back and implement, mostly ideas regarding the International Day. For example we heard that municipalities have had the whole week leading up to Oct 17 declared Poverty Week, this way awareness is created/extended. Another idea used was from Sherbrooke. Quebec where they managed to arrange free local bus service on the International Day. Multi-routed marches were also mentioned wherein everyone arrives at a central location. There were many interesting ideas (with interpreters) discussed, and most were impressed with PACC and what we’ve accomplished and our “day”. Some were particularly taken with our ability to get press coverage at a higher than local level, and at our actions -including our proposed ‘square-table” conference and our self published book, “Voices From The Edge”. In fact we also proposed at that time that such a conference would make for a good annual event something PACC, Stronach and others had all mentioned being a good idea as far as having an annual, so we figured why not on the International Day!? Perfect!

Anyway, I do believe that our enthusiasm was infectious as we got numerous compliments in this regard. We (via Caroline) also revealed our banner made for our International Day event by elementary school kids, as we had been asked to bring an object that exemplified some meaning to us from Oct 17. I chose a glass of water, representative of a basic need for the impoverished and to highlight our rain soaked International Day affair.. and poured it over my head! This broke the ice before my 3 minutes about PACC, which had to be instantly converted into french. Ha

Afterwards we (Caroline & I) left at separate times for the “short walk” to ADT World headquarters and somehow both managed to get lost. We made it back though, and laughed at our similar experiences. One person told Caroline it was too cold to stop to tell her how to get back but then another was quick to help! Me? I’m a man, we have a hard time asking for directions at the best of times, and so Caroline arrived back before me!

The Sisters had arranged for us to have dinner at the famous Resto Pop, a “communitarian” restaurant. It became known worldwide from a documentary that won many awards, about the old converted church which now serves up gourmet meals for 25 cents per dish. Resto Pop also gives jobs to people no one else would, and receives its food from discards from Hotels and the like. This place reeked of history, which I could sense while gazing around the impressive old high ceilinged cathedral convert - and as Sister Lisette told me,

“It is more of a church now than it ever was as an actual church”

I was introduced to Pierre , a former “worker’ at Resto Pop. Pierre too is a great guy, who I think had preconceived notions about “English’ Canada, and whom I also can say is now a friend. He was “assigned” by the nuns to show me around for my one night out (nice or what!), but we just ended up mostly walking around the streets shooting the breeze all night - while Caroline and the Nuns watched TV! Caroline really took to the sisters, and if not for her ‘bum’ knee flaring up, I’m sure might even have described the stay as therapeutic!

The biggest systems difference I noticed immediately is that rent there for a one-bedroom apartment could be found in the city for $195 per month, and this wasn’t subsidized! It also includes heat/hydro! Mind you they are paid less in wages in Quebec I’m told.
Pierre also informed me that the building he lives in does not charge rent at all in January to give people a break! Ooh-la-la! Never in Ontario! Surprisingly, I don’t even recall seeing one homeless person on the streets while there. Mind you it was cold.

I also met Dennis Howlett from Make Poverty History (national) campaign there among others, an ally who has offered us an opportunity (possibly) to utilize Stephen Lewis should we be so inclined to have him as a guest speaker. All in all it was a short but great stay that accomplished a lot for PACC as an organization and for us as individuals.

The ride back was filled with vigorous discussions as you can imagine, particularly with two opinionated chatterboxes like us. By the way Caroline you still owe me 5 bucks because as I said Kim Mitchell was not knighted!.. and I still say that Tim Horton’s is owned mostly by Canadians because it is now a publicly traded company!!!
Is not! Is so! Not! So!

(Sigh) Oohh laa-la!

Tom Pearson
www.povertyacc.com

PACC Council Address(from Matt)

I would first like to say first that I was asked to be here by some of my friends and peers and I will do my best to represent those people. They chose me because they believe I have a strong voice and will speak from the heart. I will keep them informed of what is said here today and get their feedback, and in turn bring, that information to you(The PACC Council). I also would like to say that I truly feel honored to be the voice of my friends and peers on this council.

As a person who has been personally victimized by the negligence on the cities part of both poverty and homelessness I feel that I am very well educated on what this group is trying to fight and by being here today I hope to articulate my views and stand points on the issues this council is out to address. I also believe that we as a united group need to take a stand against the terrible things that are happening to our fellow man and woman.

In Newmarket there is ONE shelter for women and to my understanding you can only stay in there if you have been beaten by your BF/GF not your parents or for any other reason. This in itself is complete lunacy for this kind of blatant discrimination to be allowed its completely absurd

The ONE male shelter is in poor care, believe me I lived there. The staff are AMAZING but are under-paid and over worked, sometimes have to work 12 hour shifts with only 4 hours in between, They cannot afford milk for the(shelter) house, and even things like eggs are also rare; once again a total and blatant disregard for the sanity of life.

The(Newmarket) Youth Center is a great place for youth to hang out and relax in a safe environment get some help with jobs, clothing, food etc but it’s NOT a shelter at all. They cannot keep youth over night, however to keep things clear this is not an attack on the Youth Center I whole heartedly support their staff, programs, and the center itself but we need more shelters, food programs, more places like the Youth Center and in general HELP lots more help for the homeless and impoverished.

The point of this is that people are suffering in great numbers, greater then I can fathom and some with their foolish ignorance are living out their lives blissfully, in a fairy tale world, ignoring the problems. Even worse than this, much worse, is that some in their great ignorance don't think homelessness or poverty is even real! The fact that this type of ignorance and negligence is tolerated is disgusting, and should outrage any descent person. This group(PACC) must act NOW today if possible, to change the publics view as well as the Cities’. We need to shout what's on the tip of everyone's tongue, we need to expose what is being ignored, we need to show people there is poverty and we need to show that homelessness is REAL By protest, marches, talking with the press, post flyers, even working out some sort of program with the Youth Center, have a music show as once was planned anything!! We must take action NOW the longer we wait the more people suffer and I simply cannot bear to witness suffering any longer.
MATT

About what Matt said and beyond...

The preceding excerpt is taken from June 2006 PACC’s Coordinating Committee meeting from Youth PACC member Matt.The same meeting resulted in the decision to further "discuss" action in the form of a “walk” from Newmarket to Georgina( which has been identified as York Region’s most impoverished sector). A demonstration is now being discussed for International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on October 17 2006. Since 2001 there has been a 40% increase in Food Bank usage,seniors' use in the region is up 100% in that same span! 100%! More and more, government is pushing the impoverished into the hands of others to care for them including increased reliance on charities and foodbanks. Over 80 people attended our rally in the drizzling rain proving the will to want change. It's time to hold these politicians accountable at the polls.

Tom Pearson

RANT: A new Newmarket-Aurora member who lives in Bradford writes,

I have been trying to start an ODSP support group in Bradford, however every time I put up notices in the ODSP office they are taken down. Do you know of anything in Bradford that can help with this?

Also I'm looking for affordable housing and would be willing to relocate to York Region, what housing search/help is available for this?

Thank-you,

"Joe"

Can anyone help/link him? Write tpearson61@rogers.com

Access Links for York Region

Supportive- Private: www.delihousecatering.ca

Food Access Programs and Services

This listing provides an overview of food access programs and services in York Region. Please note that hours and days of operation may change, so please phone ahead. The information is current as of April 2005. For up-to-date information and/or directions, please call the phone number listed.
General Contact Information
Description:Health Connection
1-800-361-5653
Public health nurses, dietitians and inspectors with York Region Health Services provide counselling on health issues. Provides a central access point to link to other health services.

Helpmate Community Info and Volunteer Bureau
905-884-3000 or
1-800-363-2412
Information and volunteer bureau provide region-wide information on community resources such as housing, counselling, education and health care.

YorkLink
www.york.ca
YorkLink icon located at top of web page
This online and hard-copy directory connects York Region residents with over 700 community service providers and government agencies in the Region.

York Region Food Network
905-967-0428 or
1-800-454-9736
www.yrfn.ca
A charitable organization that works to improve food security and access to affordable healthy food for York Region residents. Initiatives include community gardens, community kitchens, regional food drive coordination, public education programs, awareness campaigns and volunteer and referral services.

Youth Programs
Contact Information
Description
Food 4 Thought…
Stone Soup Supper Club
(Youth Recreation Centre)
905-953-5120
56 Charles St
Newmarket
A supper club for youth who want to learn about cooking and meal planning. Youth enjoy a sit-down meal that they have helped prepare. The program is held on Tuesday nights from 4-6 pm.
Homebase
(Pathways)
905-884-3070
10944 Yonge St
Richmond Hill
(N of Elgin Mills near Bernard)
A youth drop-in recreational centre providing food and clothing as well as assistance to find shelter / housing. Help with job search, support groups and counselling is available. Open Monday to Thursday from 1-8 pm and Friday from 1-7 pm.
York Region Youth Shelter
905-830-0121
835 Gorham St
Newmarket
An emergency shelter for homeless young men, ages 16-25. Assistance with housing, referrals and counselling is available. Meals are provided to all residents.

York Region- Street Outreach Van
Markham, Woodbridge
Aurora, Newmarket Richmond Hill, & Sutton
1-866-553-4053
416-274-4972
905-252-8933
Program designed to assist homeless, or those at risk, to find shelter, food, clothing and health care. Needle exchange is provided. The van is on the streets Monday to Thursday from 2-9 pm and on Fridays from 10 am - 4 pm.

Women’s Services
Contact Information
ABC All Babies Count
Keswick and Newmarket
Richmond Hill and Woodbridge
Markham
905-853-5514
905-856-7300
905-471-1620
A program for moms-to-be. Provides snacks, a small meal, groceries and grocery certificate for clients. Programs run on:
Mondays – Newmarket
Tuesdays – Woodbridge

Rose of Sharon Services for Young Mothers
905-853-5514 or
1-877-516-3715
www.therose.ca
Programs designed to meet specific needs and interests of young mothers and their infant to preschool-aged children. Provides educational and support services to clients. Food bank and donation room available for clients. Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Sandgate Women's Shelter of Georgina
905-722-3220 or
1-800-661-8294
An emergency shelter for abused women and their children. Equitable organization equipped to serve all women. Community kitchen is held for Sandgate clients. Outreach support provided though the Keswick office at 905-476-8992.

Umbrellas Program
(Addiction Services for York Region)
905-841-7007 or
1-800-263-2288
Ext 322
Mon-Thurs 9 am -5 pm
Friday 9 am - 4:30 pm
Supports pregnant and parenting women (with child up to 6 months old) involved with alcohol and/or drugs. Offers appointments for free, confidential assessments, counselling, information, support and referrals to other community resources. Appointments available at a variety of locations. Support with food, transportation and child supervision available for clients.

Yellow Brick House
1-800-263-3247
Provides shelter, counselling and support services to abused women and their children. Services also include parenting, children's program and follow-up. Public education provided to the community on issues of violence against women.

Women’s Centre of York Region
905-727-5837
Offers individual counselling and group programs to women in transition and needing support. Also provides a program to low income women wanting to start their own business. Onsite food room and clothing exchange are available to clients.

Mens Services
Coming soon when there are any!

Food Banks
Contact Information
Description
Aurora Food Pantry
905-841-1577
15213 Yonge St
(Yonge & Wellington)
Open: Saturdays 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Georgina Community Food Pantry
905-722-8305
915 Lake Dr
Jackson's Point
Open: Fridays 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

King Township Food Bank
905-939-2314
St Mary Magdalene Church 116 Church St Schomberg
905 859-0843
St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church 575 King Rd Nobleton
905-833-5432
All Saint’s Anglican Church 12935 Keele St King City
Pre-packaged food hampers are distributed the last Saturday of each month from 9-11 am.

Markham Food Bank
905-472-2437
70 Main St North
(behind Village Shoppes)
Open: Tuesdays 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Thursdays 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Saturdays 10:00 am -2:00 pm

Newmarket Food Pantry
905-853-7285
Old Town Hall (back door)
460 Botsford St
Open: Mondays 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Wednesdays 9:00 am to 11:00 am
Fridays 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Richmond Hill Community Food Bank
905-508-4761

Richmond Hill United Church
Enter from church parking lot
10201 Yonge St
(N of Major Mackenzie)
Open: Monday - Friday 9:00 -11:45 am

Vaughan Food Bank
905-851-2333
71 Marycroft Ave, Unit 8 Woodbridge (Hwy 7 & 400)
Open: Thursdays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Fridays 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Whitchurch/Stouffville Food Bank
905-640-4704

Churchill Community Church (Aurora Rd and 9th Line)
Open: Tuesdays 9:30 - 11:00 am 3

Community Meals
Contact Information
Description
Community Bread on Main
Newmarket
905-898-4137
St. John Chrysostom Church 432 Ontario St (at Main St)
A drop-in meal program for community members in need. Held in the Parish Hall, with entrance on Main Street. Program held on Mondays, beginning at 5 pm with dinner served from 5:30 - 6:30 pm.

Crosslands Community Dinner
Newmarket
905-868-9920
Kinsmen’s Club Hall
Water and Main St (W of Newmarket Hydro Building)
A drop-in program to provide social support and a meal for those in need. Held on Thursdays from 5-6 pm from September to June.

Dinner Club
Richmond Hill
905-884-3005
45 Crosby Ave
(N of Yonge and Major Mackenzie)
Provides affordable dining and entertainment on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. A full course meal including soup, salad, entrée and dessert costs $6.00 per person. Please call ahead to reserve a seat and to confirm details.
Friday Lunch Club
Jackson’s Point
905-722-3059

Georgina Salvation Army
1816 Metro Rd
Offers free food, fun, fellowship and friendship every Friday from 11:30 am -12:30 pm.

Lunch with Grace
Markham
905-294-3184
Grace Church, 19 Parkway Ave
(Near GO Station & E of Hwy 48)
This meal program is open to anyone who would like to attend. It is held at 12:00 pm on the 3rd Tuesday of the month (except July, August and December).

Lunch at my Place (LAMP)
Newmarket
905-895-4851
Trinity United Church
461 Park Ave (at Main)
A drop-in hot lunch program for those in need. Held on Tuesdays from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. Program closed in July and August.

Mary’s Table
Richmond Hill
905-884-2227
St Mary’s Anglican Church
10030 Yonge St
(N of Major Mackenzie Dr)
Provides food and fellowship for those without regular opportunity to get this type of support. Held on Mondays beginning at 5:30 pm.

The Gathering Place
Keswick
905-476-7455
Cornerstone Pentecostal Church
180 Church St
An opportunity for people to gather for fellowship and a relaxed meal. Program runs on Thursdays from 5:00 - 6:30 pm.

Welcome Table
Aurora
905-727-6101
Trinity Anglican Church
79 Victoria St
(E of Yonge, near Aurora Library)
Offers a warm meal, friendship and community spirit. The church’s clothing outlet for women and children opens at this time. Held on Wednesdays from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.

Shelter Programs
Contact Information
Description
Transitional and Supportive Housing Services of York Region
905-898-1658 (24 Hr)
905-898-1015 (Admin)
18838 Yonge St
East Gwillimbury
Provides supportive and emergency housing services to homeless people or to people at risk of becoming homeless. Offers referrals, informal counselling and supports to enable individuals and families to resolve their immediate housing needs. Meals provided to all residents.

Out of the Cold Program
416-392-3777
Street Helpline
A program to help homeless and isolated people during the winter months. Overnight shelter and a hot meal are provided as well as warm clothing as available. Program runs from November to April and is hosted by different religious organizations on different nights. Call for information on times, locations and potential transportation.

Other Meal Programs
Contact Information
Description
Canadian Mental Health Association
New Directions Social Recreation Program
Bradford Community Meal Program
905-841-3977
www.cmha-yr.on.ca
Aurora, Markham, Keswick and Bradford
Weekly meal programs are available through the New Directions Social Recreation Program across the Region. Call for details as times and locations vary. Cost is typically $1 to $3 per meal.
Other programs and services are available; call for details.
CMHA also sponsors the Community Meal in Bradford, Fridays from 5 – 6:30 pm at Trinity Anglican Church, 56 Church St, Bradford.

Meals on Wheels
(Community Home Assistance To Seniors
[CHATS] )
1-877-452-4287 or
905-713-6596
Messages- ext 7021
Client Services- ext 6037
Meals are available to assist seniors to remain independent in their own homes. The average cost is under $5. Entrees, soups and desserts arrive frozen for final heating at the client's home. Meals are delivered once a week and must be ordered in advance. Special diets (health and ethnic versions) available on request.

York Region Food For Learning
905-895-4512 or
1-800-735-6625
ext 4397
Food for Learning supports breakfast, snack and lunch programs in York Region schools for students who wish to attend. Please call for program locations.

Gardening and Fresh Produce Programs

Backyard Gardening-
(York Region Food Network)
905-967-0428 or 1-800-454-9736
Kits are provided with seeds and/or plants, a trowel and "how to" instructions for backyard gardening on a referral basis for low income residents.

Community Gardens (York Region Food Network)
Aurora, Markham and Newmarket
905-967-0428 or 1-800-454-9736
Small plots of land are available free to residents who want to grow their own food. Open to all gardeners.

St. Paul’s Community Garden 905-884-6915
c/o St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 10131 Bayview Ave
Richmond Hill
Hosted by St Paul’s but managed separately. Open to all gardeners. Plot availability varies and gardening fees may apply. Individuals are asked to grow one row of food for community members in need. When calling, please ask for Marg and leave daytime and evening phone numbers.

Fresh Food Partners
Gleaning Program
905-895-4512 or
1-800-735-6625
ext 4339
The gleaning program allows community members living on a limited income to pick fresh vegetables and fruit at no cost. Program runs from June to November and picking times are determined by crop availability.

Faith Organizations
Contact Information
Description
Salvation Army
Georgina
Newmarket, Aurora and area
(Bradford, East Gwillimbury, Mount Albert, Queensville,
Sharon)
Markham
Richmond Hill
905-722-3059
1816 Metro Rd
Jackson’s Point
905-895-6276
Northridge Services
415 Pickering Cres
Newmarket
905-471-1038
9329 McCowan Rd
905-737-0496
300 Major Mackenzie Dr W
Provides a range of services to families and individuals including emergency food, accommodation and clothing.

Unionville Alliance Church
The Master’s Pantry and Closet
905-477-1104, ext 230
4898 Sixteenth Ave
Markham
A food and clothing bank/store is available for community members in need. Store is open every third Saturday from 10 am - 12 pm.

St. Vincent de Paul Society
Please call your local Catholic church for information
An organization which exists in most Catholic church parishes to assist and meet the needs of people on a low income. Food vouchers may be provided for those in emergency situations.If you have any changes or suggestions, please call Nutrition Services, Public Health Branch,York Region Health Services Department at (905) 895-4512 or 1-800-735-6625, ext 4339.

Help links continued....
www.housinghelpcentre.org

York Region Street Outreach
1-866-553-4053

Youth service
pathways.dropin@on.aibn.com

More aid....
www.campaign2000.ca
yrfn@bellnet.ca

Central LHIN Stakeholders:

We(LHIN) have officially launched our "Newsroom" page on our web site at: www.centrallhin.on.ca/News/newsindex.html
Add the page to your favorites and read about how health system transformation is taking place in the Central LHIN. Articles are posted throughout the week, so check often to see what's going on.

Please share this information within your organizations, and with your family and friends to help keep our community informed of progress and challenges as our health system evolves.

Your feedback is important. For ideas about initiatives or integration examples that should be profiled, questions or comments, please contact Sandi Pelly at 905-948-1872 ext 212 or sandi.pelly@lhins.on.ca

Please see link for article on odsp rates march 2007

http://www.thestar.com/article/189455

Link to report on Welfare 2006
http://www.ncwcnbes.net/.

Please click on the follwng link to view the 2005 Report on Hunger in York Region.

Also read below for latest info on the food bank front!Thanks Anne and Elizabeth!

Dear York Region Food Network Supporter

Re: Food Bank Use in York Region

In 2005, eight food banks operated across York Region. The earliest began operations twenty years ago as a temporary measure to address the growing issue of food insecurity in the Region. To meet the growing demand however, the eighth food bank, the King Township Food Bank, began operations in January 2005. In addition, a number of faith groups and local agencies within York Region also provide limited emergency food relief by operating community meal programs, offering food vouchers, and maintaining emergency pantries.

The York Region Food Network, working with York Region Health Services, tracks the utilization of seven of the eight York Region community food banks on a monthly and annual basis. The attached report reflects the utilization of these food banks. We regret that, once again, Vaughan Food Pantry has declined to participate in the collection of regional statistics.

The total number of clients fed by food banks in York Region increased 38% between 2001 and 2005, and a further rise is projected. However, collections from food drives in the Region continue to decline. The Spring 2006 food drive gathered 73,100 pounds, 15% less then the 90,000 pounds sought. Because families with children are a major beneficiary of food bank services in York Region, it follows that an increasing number of children, and their parents, will go hungry in this summer, as the food banks run out of supplies.

Food banks, apparently, are here to stay and food insecurity is a growing issue in York Region. I ask that you review and bring this report to the attention of York Region residents as soon as possible. It is imperative that we find the means to eliminate food insecurity, and to feed all York Region residents.

Elizabeth Brims
Executive Director
YRFN - the voice of hunger in York Region

In 2005, York Region food banks fed 46,575 people;
20,900 were children.

For more info visit us at www.yrfn.ca

194 Eagle Street
Newmarket ON L3Y 1J6
(p) 905-967-0428
(f) 905-967-0097
email: yrfn@bellnet.ca
www.yrfn.ca

Postings:

Hi Tom,Thought you might be interested in the attached.
http://www.landlordconnect.ca/RENTnews/show_full.cfm?id=723

Jane Wedlock

Coordinator

York Region Alliance to End Homelessness

194 Eagle Street

Newmarket, ON L3Y 1J6

Registered Disability Savings Plan - Draft Legislation

Next posting:

In October 2007 the federal government released draft legislation for the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) According to the draft legislation the lifetime maximum limit of an RDSP is $200,000 with no annual limit. The plan is expected to become available in April 2008. Under the plan individuals who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, their parents or legal guardians, will be able to establish an RDSP and will be eligible to receive Disability Savings Grants, and for low income families a Disability Savings bond.
However people need to be aware of the definition of family income. If a disabled person is under age 18, the family income is defined as the parent’s income. As soon as the person reaches age 18, then the disabled person's own family income is used. If that person and their family earn less than $74,000 a year they are eligible for the maximum federal matching grants, 300% on the first $500 of annual contributions and 200% on the next $1,000 of annual contributions. For an annual contribution of $1,500 an additional $3,500 is granted for a total $5,000 contribution. This matching grant is available for 20 years or age 49, of the person with the disability, whichever comes first, for a lifetime limit of $70,000. For low income families making less than $21,000 the government will also offer a savings bond of $1,000 a year for 20 years, or age 49 for the person with the disability whichever come first.
Families with a net family income of less than $20,863, will be eligible for a Canada Disability Savings bond. The federal government will contribute $1,000 a year into a Registered Disability Savings Plan with no contributions from the individual or their family for a lifetime limit of $20,000. The Savings bond is available for 20 years or age 49 of the person with the disability. The RDSP must be converted into an annuity at age 59. The annuity income is calculated on stats Canada’s life expectancy table, plus 3; divided into the total value of the fund. There must be sufficient funds remaining in the plan to refund the total grants and/or bonds contributed to the plan by the federal government on death or maturity.
The major issue still to be determined is whether or not the RDSP assets and withdrawals will impact the Ontario Disability Support Program. The growth and the earnings are tax-deferred and the tax and the grants or bonds are income when the money is paid out to the beneficiary. Anyone can contribute to the plan, and if a plan is opened by a parent the whole community can contribute to the same plan. To view the legislative proposals go to the ministry of finance web site or click on their link.http://www.fin.gc.ca/news07/07-074e.html
LifeTRUST Planning
Committed to improving the lives of people with a disability since 1989
60 Harrison Drive Newmarket On L3Y 4P4
Toll free 1 800 638-7256 fax (905) 836-5458
Email lifetrust@rogers.com www.life-trust.com



- The Province has announced a new program called ROOF( Rental Opportunity for Ontario Families).The ROOF program is a $100 allowance per month that is paid directly to low income working families (those with children and net incomes below $20,000) to assist with either private market or social housing rent.

Starting January 2008, the Province will provide these housing
allowances to eligible families for a maximum of 5 years. Families may
be eligible if they:
- have employment income
- are a renter household
- have one or more dependent children under the age of 18
- pay more than 30% of income on rent
- are on, or eligible to be on the social housing waiting list
- are not receiving social assistance or other government shelter
allowance.

The deadline for accessing this program is November 15, 2007. To be
eligible, applicants must apply by this date.

Applications must be made using original application forms provided by
the Province. Applications can be requested using the attached flyer,
through the ROOF website at www.Ontario.ca/ROOF, by phone at
1-888-544-5101 or at some community agencies.


New Website Resources
Please note that the following resources are now available online.

§     New Make Poverty History Brochures
http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/e/resources/brochure-2007-whiteband.pdf

§      Make Poverty History Blog page (comments and subscriptions are temporarily disabled, sorry for the inconvenience)
http://blog.makepovertyhistory.ca

§     “Make Poverty History Campaign” Facebook group
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2405899584

§     Chapter Photo Gallery
http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/e/photo-galleries/local-groups
Vote Out Poverty Massey Hall Concert/Rally

Liberals trump NDP dental announcement July 10, 2007 CANADIAN PRESS

The Ontario Liberals will look at boosting funding to provide more
subsidized dental care for children and low-income residents, Finance
Minister Greg Sorbara said today.
The province is currently spending about $90 million on providing
low-income children with dental care, he said.
"But it's an area of public policy that's deserving of more attention,"
Sorbara said following a campaign-style promise by the NDP pledging an
extra $100 million to subsidize dental care for children and low-income
residents.
"They're (the NDP) not the first ones to comment on the need in this
area . .
. It's an area that merits further consideration as we go forward."
New Democrat Leader Howard Hampton said Ontario has the lowest spending
on dental care in Canada, covering only two per cent of overall costs.
Saskatchewan covers 17 per cent, and Prince Edward Island covers 12 per
cent, he said.
"It's time to fix this broken and unfair health system," Hampton said
at
a news conference this morning.
"(The funding would) provide real relief to thousands from the pain,
suffering and compromised overall health of dental disease."
The NDP plan would create "community dental health teams," and funding
would be increased over time to offer more service to low-income
residents who don't have dental insurance, Hampton said.
It's a smart long-term investment because poor dental health can lead
to
heart disease, diabetes and other serious problems, he added.
The free care could be delivered in community centres and in rural and
remote areas that are underserved by dental professionals.
Conservative Leader John Tory said he's more in favour of moving on a
$1.2-million, five-year pilot project proposed by Toronto Oral Health
that would help the working poor.
But Tory said he's more focused on the state of the entire health-care
system.
"I don't doubt that there are many things that we could do to improve
dental and other kinds of health," he said. "My main concern has been
with keeping the existing health services going."
www.makepovertyhistory.ca

National Council of Welfare Report

Solving Poverty: Four cornerstones of a workable national strategy for Canada (Winter 2007) is available on the National Council of Welfare site, together with a news release and a separate report on responses to the NCW's recent on-line questionnaire about poverty and income security:

www.ncwcnbes.net

LATEST DEVELOPMENT For PACC 2007!!!

For Immediate Release: Oct 19 2007
Event location: Fairy Lake Park (Eagle/ Water Sts) Newmarket Ont Canada
PG 1- Poverty event helps set new world record
PG 2 - New fund offers 170 local kids a chance

Oct 17, PACC - York Region – hosted their second Stand-up and be counted against poverty event in as many years helping set a world record of support with 38.8 million people from over 100 countries - up significantly from last years 23.5 million

Highlights of the event included political guest speakers and attendees such as new area MPP Frank Klees, Regional Councilor John Taylor, Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, Georgina Mayor Rob Grossi, and Former Aurora Mayor Tim Jones. Various federal candidates for local ridings and Councilors were also present in numbers.

The event drew 215 people who signed pledges and were officially counted towards the Guinness Book world record for people standing at once against poverty - with scores more pledging in through the PACC website. Other highlights included inspiring performances by the feature entertainment – Anam Ranaim (with David Rankine and Tara Mae Hillyer), Ava, and “Hurricane” Mike Thompson. Poems and testimonials were particularly touching including Donna, a victim of the housing and dental-health care systems and a breast cancer survivor, who struggles to survive.

Organizers, (PACC) Poverty Action for Change Coalition, also encouraged those attending - particularly the various levels of governments represented - along with church, social workers, & the marginalized to participate in a “square-table forum to find solutions to poverty. The idea started at last years event, has attracted some interest from Provincial Minister Madeleine Meilleur and commitment from MP Belinda Stronach previously; however she has since announced intentions to leave politics and therefore PACC was looking to add more allies to the idea.

Said Mr. Pearson, “ This was a great, cooperative event. The turnout from the various political levels was particularly encouraging, and not just those who spoke. Scores of councilors and others from throughout the region attended and all went out of their way to express an interest to participate in further action with PACC, to find ways to reduce poverty. It was an encouraging day”.


170 openings in Newmarket-Aurora for kids to participate free! Page down





Operation Sparrow

Also announced was the new “Operation Sparrow” a new fund offering kids and youths free opportunities to participate in karate and theatre who couldn’t otherwise afford to - with plans to add more activity choices to it in the future. The operation includes the option of applying for transportation to and from locations as well.

“PACC has been involved in this endeavour from it’s beginning and has tried to ensure it remains as user friendly as possible. We think kids deserve these opportunities today, even though ideally we wish there wasn’t a need. Offering transportation was another option we pushed, as this is often the biggest stumbling block for marginalized kids. This is an absolutely fantastic fund that took private businesses, including Robinson’s Karate and Spotlight Theatre School, to get the ball rolling, along with other caring partners. We will be challenging businesses, sports organizations, and others to participate - as we would like to include hockey, baseball soccer, dance and other activities to offer all kids a level field of play.” PACC Chair Tom Pearson said.

Anyone interested in hearing more about Operation Sparrow can call the Sparrowline @ 905-716-1447




For Immediate Release: Aug 5 2007

The International Day For The Eradication of Poverty Needs You!

PACC - Poverty Action for Change Coalition (of York Region) calls for speakers, performers, volunteers.

Oct 17 is The International Day For The Eradication of Poverty. This day is marked around the world annually by poverty groups, and was started to give a voice to those living in poverty. Extreme poverty is a global issue that even Canada is not immune to.

PACC (York Region) will be organizing a friendly rally/ awareness event that will gather at Newmarket’ s Fairy Lake Park and offer a stage and microphone to those who would like to speak out against poverty. Last years event attracted speakers such as those living in poverty, politicians, advocates for the poor, religious leaders, musicians and others. If you’d like your name added to the bill please let us know asap. “Plug N Play” Musicians and Rappers are also welcome however songs specific to poverty awareness and performers playing mostly original material will be given preferred selection treatment.

The event will also be part of the Make Poverty History and the United Nations Millennium Campaigns’ official “stand –up and be counted” number, which will be added to the totals from events world-wide in order to assist to break the Guinness book of records (which the event helped set last year at 23.5 million people world-wide!!)

Free hot food to the needy will be available on site (and free to all with any donation)! www.povertyacc.com for more and email info.



For Immediate Release April 19 2007

For: Editorial / News Desk/ 2 Pages

Re: Post: Meeting with Minister, Deputy Minister,Senior Advisors and Senior Staff

Minister agrees to participate in ongoing conference on poverty
First ever of its kind in the region!

York Region’s Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) (along with York Region’s Alliance to end Homelessness and York Region Food Network) met with Ontario’s Community and Social Services Minister, Madeleine Meilleur, as well as the Deputy Minister, Assistant Deputy Minister, Senior Advisors and other senior staff, April 17 2007 at Queens Park. The meeting, scheduled for 1/2 hour but lasting 1 hour, was requested on their behalf by Newmarket-Aurora MP Belinda Stronach; who herself has previously agreed to participate in a “square-table” or “round-table” conference, designed to tackle poverty in York Region. Ms. Stronach had Constituency Manager Steve Hinder and her Assistant Maria Campbell attend on her behalf as she was in Ottawa.

The “Table” event, first proposed by PACC on the front lawn gathering at York Regional Municipal Headquarters on Oct 17 2006 on the” International Day of the Eradication of Poverty”, hopes to include federal, provincial, regional and municipal politicians, school representatives, health professionals, marginalized persons, social workers, religious organizations and others - working together in a non-partisan setting to assist in reaching action solutions.

The groups walked away winners, having convinced the Minister and Senior colleagues (after Ms. Stronach’s staff reiterated her support in their presence) that such an event would be helpful in future strategies to tackle poverty. It was agreed that it would not be a once only conference but a series of several gatherings.

PACC had declared that a formal commitment from both the federal and provincial levels would go a long way to ensure participation from others. The commitment to this proposal given by the Minister is a significant breakthrough for the impoverished in York Region and ultimately Ontario. This historic endeavor will be first ever of its kind for the region.

Both the Homeless Alliance and PACC pointed out that such an endeavor matches the ministry’s own (“Thriving Communities”) Strategic framework, which encourages working in partnership with community groups and others.

P 2 Continued PACC/ MINISTER


PACC also tried to convince the senior “ranking” audience, that immediate changes were needed in assistance rates for ODSP and Workfare (with inferred references to minimum wages) recipients and for an immediate end to the claw-back” to no avail. The Minister also shot down PACC’s request for an
“ Independent Advocacy Commission” to be set up on behalf of impoverished residents whom PACC maintains is systematically being abused across societies spectrum - in what they see as a sustained pattern. Minister Meilleur felt there were likely isolated incidents.

PACC remains hopeful that after having a chance to read an excerpt from their self-published book, Voices from The Edge; Living in Poverty - and in particular a new story submitted separately, that chronicles the ongoing nightmarish conditions that a local cancer survivor and single mom is having to live - and after participating in the “table’ – that they will be convinced otherwise.

“ This was an impressive senior staff audience which was encouraging, and despite not seeing any immediate concessions made, we believe it (the attending senior grouping) speaks to the fact that there is an awareness of room for improvement and as well we are encouraged by the Minister’s commitment to the “roundtable” which is significant. We acknowledge (d) that positive changes have been made within the ministry as good first steps, and we welcome the commitment to a Round-table type of conference - but we maintain that the current system and allowances fall considerably short”, states PACC Chair Tom Pearson, “and we still need recognition that mental health is a problem being partially fed by the current system’s set-up first, in order to have it addressed”.

PACC is a grassroots York Region community group, comprised of a unique cross - section of marginalized persons, as well as advocacy professionals and others, working together to eliminate poverty. www.povertyacc.com

Also! Education Board listens!!

PACC met with the York Region School Board on Ap 10 2007 and was able to convey our position of the need for changes within the system to make it trully access education for all and to point out hidden costs and sensitivity issues towards marginalized students.

Ivana and Melonie gave convincing evidence of the need for changes. Great job.. and special accolades to Kim as well and the legal Clinic for their considerable efforts.

From - Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) www.povertyacc.com

To: Make Poverty History campaign organizers

RE: Past year's review of action as requested

Most of the info you request can be found on our website which has been running for over two years now , however here is a quick synopsis of some of what we've done in just the past year in order as best I can recall.

PACC meets as a group regularly once a month and send out regular updates and news emails to all our members (attending and non). We receive regular emails about Make Poverty History from Dennis Howlett and then resend out all to our members that are hooked up to the internet which is around 100. We also send to POVNET which covers a wider geographical base made up of Poverty caring/fighting individuals. We also stay in contact with other poverty groups we met at the ATD Fourth World national evaluation last January in Montreal. We also post links and statements from Make Poverty History and ADT Fourth World on our site. www.povertyacc.com

June 2006- PACC Provided York Region Media Group, testimonial members and most information for their award winning 6 week series -June -July 2006 on poverty (distributed Region wide in various newspapers), written by Chris Traber, "Below The Line" includes comments/ insights from PACC Chair Tom Pearson.

Follow up letter to editor from PACC Chair, Tom Pearson, sent/ printed a week after York Region Media Group poverty series, Below The Line finishes (to maximize exposure). Urges citizens and politicians to act/hold accountable.

PACC Chair Tom Pearson appeared on CBC Oct 17 2006 (Andrew Nichols, News At Noon) to promote International Day for Eradication of Poverty as well as promote PACC's host event in York Region. Criticized Belinda Stronach on national TV for not doing enough about the 50,000 people relying on food-banks in her own area.

Oct 17- PACC- Hosted a first ever in history demonstration against poverty in York Region, on the front lawn of York Regional headquarters (was a cooperative affair). PACC provided (our own) white bands/signs (we were promised some materials from Make Poverty History to assist our event but never got any, including white bands which we made) a sound mic, and voice to those fighting to or committed to ending poverty and free hot food for volunteers, attendees, entertainers, and marginalized people/members of PACC. Invitations to campaigners for municipal elections was heeded by good representation and as well some from other levels of gov reps including provincial and federal. In all about 80 people attended in the pouring rain. Pics on website at www.povertyacc.com

Oct 17 2006- being prior to election, PACC used the opportunity to get municipal candidates to speak to supporting helping end poverty and proposed an event (series of "squaretable talks) to find solutions to end poverty that would include all levels of gov and hear information/ testimony from those working/living in poverty including social workers, Church leaders, aboriginal supporters etc. PACC received support from various levels.

Nov 2006- Tom Pearson appeared prior to municipal election (for 2nd time in 2006) on Aurora cable show "Our Town" hosted by Dick Illingworth - a long time respected resident / show host, former Mayor and citizen of the year. Challenged politicians, including local M.P. Belinda Stronach to act and for all voters to make them (all gov levels) make it an issue.

PACC Attended local (Newmarket/Aurora/Markham/vaughn) municipal debates and asked tough questions regarding what candidates were prepared to do to help end poverty. Limited opportunity given here due to format.

Dec 2006- Letter to the Toronto Star by PACC Chair Tom Pearson printed, opens by commending them for their War On Poverty Series, and again takes a stab at Feds rep Belinda Stronach for doing little locally - very next day she calls Tom directly, agrees to meet, and as well to participate in a forum to end poverty. It is agreed it must be non-partisan and lead to action and involve various levels of government.

Jan 2007 - PACC attended national poverty evaluation hosted by International anti-poverty fighters, ADT Fourth World, examining national strategies for Oct 17 events and beyond. Dennis Howlett meets Tom Pearson here and reveals PACC may be able to get Sinclair Stevens to speak at an event should we have one upcoming.
(story of Montreal trip at www.povertyacc.com)

Dec 2006 Meeting with Stronach eventually leads to an April 2007 meeting with Prov Minister of Community Relations and Social Services, Madeleine Meilleur as well as Deputy Minister Kevin Costante, Assistant Dep Minister Alex Bezzina, Karen Glass Director of Ontario Works, Senior Advisor Gurpeet S. Malholtra and central east office personnel - Community relations Manager Michael Batrie and John Erskine-Kelly - however it had been pre arranged that we attend with two other agreed upon community groups (at request of Stronachs office to show a wider support network) - York Region Homelessness Alliance and York Region Food Network. Presenting parties seperately voiced their concerns but as a collective voice asked for committment to a series of "squaretable " talks leading to reducing poverty. Although Ministry does not acknowledge a problem - The Minister would only acknowledge that there may be isolated cases - they did agree to commit to a series of meetings or forum to study how it could be better serviced. Involvement with the other groups has since slowed the progress (due to slow committee processes) however we are still moving forward, possibly without the other groups should they not be able to keep up to speed. (This is an area we could possibly use assistance with by Make Poverty History.)

You may read PACC's complete presentation to the Minister et al on the website at www.povertyacc.com as presented by Chair Tom Pearson under the heading button "Politics".

March 22 2007- York Region Media Group - Tom Pearson, PACC Chair, asked to weigh in his opinions as an "ask the experts panelist' on the provincial budget, along with other "experts". Tom wastes no time ripping it apart as inadequate.

Ap 2007 - PACC - gave deputations to York Region School Board regarding the plights of marginalized students and the problems they face. testimonial members were again utilized to get the point across as well as facts provided by the PACC supporting York Region Legal Clinic. Growing cost, Hidden costs (including non- transportation for many high school aged out of pocket) and the trend towards charging for paper, pens, trips, books, computer use at homes, mandatory student / activity cards etc were highlighted as well and the stigma that can arise due to the current policies/set-up.

Above meeting was followed up with article circulated through York Region Media Group (Era-Banner, Liberal, Advocate)

June 2007- PACC Chair, Tom Pearson as well as 4 marginalized PACC members appear on Rogers 10 TV Show" Insights" which airs across York Region and beyond. Show generated influx of postive calls and flushes out new members and municipal support to help us make Oct 17 event 2007 bigger and with a higher profile by offering a cooperative spirit. The show producer has since contacted PACC to let them know that their episode has been chosen as one of 8 that will re-run continually all summer of 2007. PACC also asked to come back again to appear on "Insights" prior to the federal elections in the fall 2007.

PACC plans to broaden the invitation scope for this years Int Day Oct 17 to ensure representaion to those who'd like to speak to ending poverty nationally and globally (Make Poverty History rep as well) have a voice in addition to locally, which should help ensure a broader political and media turn-out as well.

The Town of Newmarket, home of York Regional municipal headquarters,has offered use of the main Town Park (Fairy lake) as well as use of their mobile stage for speakers to voice from. As a cooperative effort we can ensure a broader media presence and coordinate event spin- offs such as a ceremonial march to the grounds etc. Further the town offered the use of Mainstreet for a Youth Road hockey event PACC organizes that helps needy kids play organized friendly sports and use of their council chambers for the square-tables!!) We plan to use the upcoming Oct elections to solicit comittment to poverty action and to get committment to our proposed square-table forums on ending it. We will then use OCT 17 to announce the committments/dates of the square-tables on poverty which we hope can be a model for use across Canada.

To conclude;

As you can now atest we, Poverty Action for Change Coaltition (PACC) have done a tremendous amount to educate the public and beyond from many levels about poverty issues.Our Oct 17 event this year will garner more attention and could include all local groups attached to Make Poverty History Campaign and or those committed to ending poverty. We hope to have a more coordinated assist from Make Poverty History this year in addition to materials, a speaker of note would be a boost (Sinclair Stevens?), and as well any other Make Poverty History related groups that could attend/speak/perform, help organize, add bodies for the march to the park , etc, as well as link/event posting on their site.

Should I have forgotten anything I will let you know!

Tom Pearson
www.povertyacc.com

OUR VOLUNTEERS!

YOUTH LOGO DESIGN WINNER CARLY!

Tune in OCT 13 and 17 @ 1:30 PM live to radio as PACC hosts a call-in Radio Show on NATradio.com

CBC live TV interview Oct 17 12:40 PM with Andrew Nichols/Tom Pearson www.cbc.ca

Click Below for links to York Region Newspaper series,
"Below The Line, poverty in York Region
http://www.yorkregion.com/news/belowtheline

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3600780p-4162160c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3600778p-4162138c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3600785p-4162176c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/Newscentre/Regional/story/3600712p-4162146c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/Newscentre/Regional/story/3610365p-4173434c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3610399p-4173400c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3610397p-4173411c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3610396p-4173414c.html (Melanie's response - rock on Melanie!)

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/BelowTheLine/


and of potential interest, here is an article I thought you might be interested in ("know your enemy"):

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/Newscentre/Regional/story/3610372p-4173422c.html


http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/Video/

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3604834p-4167020c.html

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3604829p-4166995c.html
http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3613351p-4177159c.html (woo hoo Kim!!!)

http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/YR_News/LettersToEditor/story/3613352p-4177049c.html


http://www.yorkregion.com/yr/yr4/Video/