PACC's Excellent Adventure Oct 17 2007!!!
International Day for The Eradication of Poverty 2007

PACC’ s planning for Oct 17 2007 really began Oct 17 2006 after we had somehow managed to gather a group of politicians (and wannabes) together, alongside a throng of die hard anti – poverty advocates, in the middle of the rain. It was here that by asking for commitments to help end poverty, that our 2007 ball really started its roll. An offhand remark back then, that Fairy Lake Park (a beautiful parkway in the Town of Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, that consists of acres of landscapes connected by paved pathways and open fields alongside a stream - and which now boasted an outdoor rock-framed amphitheatre) would make an ideal location for next year, ended up on the plate of the Councilor for that area and as luck would have it, the councilor had known what it was like to arrive in this country virtually penniless and so would later wholly embrace the idea! This councilor would go on to help us secure the site, permits, port-a-potties, town’s mobile stage/sound/lights and even some tables to use. He, along with a Regional Councilor who had also attended on that Oct 17 2006 day, pitched in from their own budgets to assist us to run a newspaper ad in addition to the Town’s newspaper declaration and posting of the event running on the town’s moving lawn sign.

Of course I got most of these balls re-rolling towards final form sometime in August – having learned from planning events in the private world, that you need to start early, and especially when... you have no budget!

Another early move we used was to challenge the Provincial MPP contenders at the local debates that should they win - would they commit to speaking at our event on Oct 17, one week after they are elected, about what their plan was to tackle poverty- and of course they all publicly agreed! Boldly, we then advertised and publicized in advance of the Oct 10 Election that whomever wins had agreed to come and address poverty at our event!

Oct 17 The Big DaY!

We also appeared on TV throughout York Region in June, Aug and Oct before the election, keeping the profile of poverty and our Oct 17 event hot. And hot it would be!! With over 200 people signing our call to action pledge, and help from so many who stepped forward to volunteer on the big day and some I was meeting for the first time - like the minister who helped me secure the last tent, when I was having trouble and time was a ticking, that PACC members Jean, and Alyson had helped lug over to the park from the Community Centre... Meanwhile another woman from a church in nearby Aurora who had promised to bring buns and milk for the event at which we were offering up hot soups (2), hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, refreshments, deserts, fresh produce and clothing vouchers...all free, was vying for my attention! A chiropractor even threw in 1000 frozen hot dogs to give away on top of the food the caterers donated. PACC members, supporters, members of various churches, friends that found us through the ‘Make Poverty History” channels, endorsing organizations and so many others, also offered a hand. It was really good to see.

I had told our volunteer crew that day to expect the worst in the weather, and when 4 O’clock approached it looked like I’d been right, as nasty looking clouds had rolled in.

‘ Oh well”, I’d thought to myself, “it was colder last year”

But it never would rain, and in fact was a beautiful day with little wind, and Fairy Lake Park with its fall trees and colours was stunning.

Securing the 5 tents with spikes was strictly precautionary. The one set up by the park’s paved pathway to enable easy walker access to the seniors in the area wishing to sign the pledge against poverty, also doubled as a” tickets for meals” depot. In this way we directed people to come to the sign the pledge table before they ate. Pre- scouting the location really paid off here! Our other site locations included the food area with two sit down pavilions, and also a table to sign our banner. The main stage area had stone seating for several hundred and our 4 tents angled themselves to allow the seats to all see onstage where the action would take place.

At 4:05 I scampered over to the main-stage and seating area after putting up the last tent while announcing to our crew to take their places as we were already behind.

‘I don’t hear any music” I yelled! As almost simultaneously the soothing, pulsing sounds from Anam Ranaich began to breathe life into the park. The instrumental and percussion sounds acted like an official opening to our day, just as volunteer Mark was scooping up the last of the goose poo! At last!

Mayors, councilors, supporters, curious passersby, and other speakers, began to fill in the seating areas as I ran around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to ensure everything was in place before talking up MC duties, as I knew once started I would be “chained” to the staging area.

Start The Music!

Politicians, speakers, well-wishers, and others, seemed to converge (on me) at once, each offering a word of support and encouragement regarding the event and the fight against poverty. It was great to get so many encouraging words and commitments from so many including politicians and more wannabes...but now I was 5 minutes late!! Doh!
Now 5 minutes may not sound like much, but when you have politicians biting at the bit to speak because they have another meeting to attend, and when we needed to have a count done by 5 O’clock for our official world record entry - the pressure was on to stay on course!

Awkwardly I made my way onstage to inform the opening entertainers to wrap up. Originally they had been scheduled to go another 10 minutes and last minute additions to the itinerary made for confusion, however like the pro’s they are, Anam Ranaich relinquished with dignity.

I opened reiterating the crisis of poverty and highlighted that we had all the elements present (here today) needed to tackle it and effectively change things...all it took was the will to do so. I mentioned that I, we, PACC, as a group had failed thus far, yes, but that we all, including those in the crowd had also failed because it is the politicians and the public who ultimately decide which issues are priorties, thus we all failed. I encouraged everyone to commit on this day to ending poverty, and encouraged ongoing work beyond this one day to ensure that all kids and families had the same opportunities of a life not wracked in poverty. We encouraged dialogue amongst attending guests and heard inspiring words from Zully Zambrano, a recent immigrant to canada from a third worl country and Vice-chairperson of El Sembrador, part of the team bringing social and spiritual support to the Migrant Mexican Workers at the farms of the local Holland Marsh.

We then officially opened up the free hot meals with the saying of grace by Rev Wardlaw.

The Mayor of Newmarket was the first politician speaker as we had asked that the Town officially declare support for the day, and to furthermore dedicate a rock in the stone-filled park as a reminder to those in poverty and that it be marked with a permanent plaque. The Mayor from the poorest area in York Region, Georgina, and one with more single parents per capita than any other, was also given an opportunity to speak, and as well a Regional Councilor who has previously pledged support to help us “Any way I can”.

Our marquee local political “ally”, Belinda Stronach, sent words of support as well from Ottawa, which we noted aloud. She attended a similar event there, was with us in spirit, and as well had a representative wish us well at our event. Former mayors, future federal candidates, labour leaders, church leaders, and political reps from all stripes came out -even though not on the bill - and engaged our mix of attendees. This was our hope, this and the messages from our marginalized speakers getting through.

I made sure that our some marginalized representatives got to speak before the politicians with previous commitments left, by inserting speak time prior to the big attraction of the day for some, that being the new MPP elected only 7 days previous. Coming from the Conservative Party, which in Ontario was the party that when last in power cut welfare and disability and welfare rates by 22% and crippled the system here, clearly he had a tough sell with this crowd, but to his credit Frank Klees not only showed up but committed publicly to tackling poverty. The next day, Oct 18, he sent out a press release (copied to us) commending our group and the event, and announcing an intention to gather a group from all various political levels and the private sector and form a plan to reduce poverty in the region. It is similar to what we have been proposing (square-table) however does not appear to include hearing from churches, social workers, agencies, and marginalized voices. We’ll be working on changing this!

Click above music artist - "minimize" then read on!

One of our first marginalized speakers, a single Mom, who became victimized first by the dental (non) treatment she received due to finances, which caused her numerous ongoing ailments captivated the audience-telling of her life in poverty. She is also a breast cancer sufferer, and was threatened with death by a youth known to police while living in housing.Her son had to quit his newspaper route,she was spit on - sometimes by visitors to this neighbour - sworn at, mocked daily in her geared to income housing complex and through her walls at night. The tribunal found her complaints "not credible", this after over 10 years without a single problem. The perpetrator, although criminally charged, remained next door. Non-action to rectify her situation, forced a search for another place to live for her perceived family's safety and well being - ending with them moving and now paying out70% of her income from disability support for rent. There was/is literally nothing “affordable” available to her in the area, and as she said to end her speech, she didn’t understand how the politicians could allow this to be’ “because right now we are all drowning.” Her speech contained the “wow” factor, and was very moving.Several touching personal stories from those living in poverty were shared on our mic at this juncture, which set the mood perfectly to prelude some music onstage.

Somewhere sandwiched into the mix between Regional Councilor Taylor, a speaker representing low income seniors, and our official stand-up count - I had the newly elected MPP slated to speak, and figured with him being a Conservative at a poverty event, he’d be the safest bet to insert humour should I want to...and I did. Ha!

He'd been campaigning on the Slogan, - Frank Klees – he Gets Things done!”, so during his introduction I spoke about having seen him attend a poverty resolutions forum that the local churches had put together about a year previous, and I recalled noting then that he was alone as far as attending politicians, even though the open invite was made to many. So no, his Conservative party was not known for being good to the poor, but he was there, at least he showed up, and so I conceded that aloud. I pointed out the fact that if the other politicians don’t show up then how can they really know about poverty.

I went on to say that a wise Movie Producer boss once said to me (about offering partnerships to movies over the phone to American businessmen) aside from mentioning it took “balls” to do the job, he said - 90% of the job was just showing up. Just picking up that phone and dialing. And so I said, “If that was the case - then the MPP showed up then - and he showed up today and so, if he’s 90% there - then we only have to work on the other 10%! ...And.....As We all already know...He Gets Things Done! Please welcome new MPP Frank.... ha!

AVA sang some soothing, feeling ballads about poverty, in continuance of the format, truly capturing the spirit. At least for a moment, we were lulled into a feeling of melancholy and then hope!

Following Ava, new, free kids/youths programs/funds offering opportunities for sports, educational, and other activities were announced,. PACC’s influence in one program enabled the offer of transportation to and from activities, which is often one of the biggest barriers to low income kids to participate. Of course we’d like to see an end to the need for such programs however we feel kids need these opportunities today - so that they can compete on the same playing field of life - tomorrow!

Below - Kyle curious after hearing his name called

A surprised and delighted Kyle gets a new toy and tells us why guns are bad - part of a community development program assisting families/kids/youths access activities. He also received one of the first applications for the new "Operation Sparrow" fund.

Below Newmarket Councilor Sponga - one of the founding board members of (PACC endorsed) "Operation Sparrow" which affords kids access to transportation and registration to organized activities like karate, theatre school, and hopefully soon sports!

Above Newmarket/Aurora Regional Councilor Taylor listens intently to testimonials.

Below he speaks shortly afterwards empassioned.

Our Oct 17 event concluded with poems, speeches, and original artists playing their music written specifically about poverty and its effects. Some were written from personal experiences, some were written out of compassion, but all were delivered with heart. It was a moving ending, seeing so much conviction in these (and) new voices being heard, and hopefully none too soon to make a difference - for as our final headline performer Hurricane Mike Thompson sang in his song, "Colder Days", that highlights the life of a man on the streets,

“Cause here it is November and there's colder days ahead!”

Account retold by

Tom Pearson

Chair, Poverty Action for Change Coalition

There are many ways to get involved! Start a chapter!In Aurora-Newmarket/Keswick/Richmond Hill/thornhill/Markham/Vaughn call 1-888-365-5226 or to get your no cost PACC membership or attend a meeting or ... tell someone like Mcguinty!

www.premier.gov.on.ca

Greetings colleagues,

Streetjibe is a community of youth service practitioners learning from each other and building new skills so that young people experiencing poverty in York Region will have more options for positive healthy growth.

The attached flyer highlights our next Streetjibe workshop titled, Youth Engagement - Tools and Strategies. This workshop will be of interest to practitioners interested in learning new skills to engage “hard to serve/reach youth”. Please feel free to circulate the flyer within your organization or post it to your network (I apologize in advance for any cross posting of this flyer).

Lunch is included for this no cost professional development opportunity. Please send me an email note if you are planning to attend. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thanks,
Brent

Brent MacKinnon

Program Manager
Street Kids International
416-504-8994 ext. 32
Cell # 905-751-6075
brent@streetkids.org
www.streetkids.org

Mailing Address
Box 1026 T.D.C. Postal Station
77 King Street West
Toronto, ON M5K 1P2

Dear Make Poverty History supporter,

The Federal Government has launched an online pre-budget consultation to give Canadians a chance to have input to the development of the 2007 Federal Budget. Last year they reported receiving 6000 responses to their online consultation process.

Every time we send out an action request to Make Poverty History supporters we get between 6,000 and 10,000 responses within a week. With your support we can send a strong message that the government deliver a 15% increase to aid as a first step in a plan to reach 0.7% of GNI by 2015 and increase the Child Tax Benefit to $5100. You can also ask that the government design and implement a domestic poverty reduction strategy.

The consultations will end at 12 midnight EST on February 28, 2007. So, please act now by going to: http://www.fin.gc.ca/activty/consult/prebud07_e.html

Note: The government online consultation is a bit restrictive in the choices it offers but you can select “Spending” and “Other” as your top priorities. In the box for comments on these priorities write in your own words about the need for more and better aid and ending child poverty in Canada.

For more information on Make Poverty History's budget demands see: http://www.ccic.ca/e/004/oped_2007-02-01budget_to_make_povertyhistory.shtml

Thank you for your support.


Dennis Howlett
Coordinator
Canadian Make Poverty History campaign


P.S.

Be sure to forward this message to your friends and colleagues. It is available online at http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/e/take-action/e-alerts/2007-02-20.html

0r..email a politician,Like Premiere Mcguinty!

NEXT!!!!

Interested in having your poverty related story published in our next book edition, or in recording stories online anonymously? Contact PACC today at 905-836-7931 or email to tpearson61@rogers.com (subject: PACC)

Story Example:

The Pursuit of Happyness

A true story by Tom Pearson

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 and Chair of a poverty action group (PACC), I 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 despite being so loved the flick.Another invite 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 is 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, 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 key rope-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. 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


PACC MEMBERS!! Our Kids NEED YOUR HELP!!! READ BELOW!

For those of you who have child(ren) or know of parents with children in the public education system, we desperately need your help with an issue that affects you. PACC is currently meeting with the York Region District School Board and raising concerns of the two-tiered education system in York Region and the increasing financial burden of school fees on low-income families. We are arguing for a fee-free, accessible education for all children in York Region.

What PACC needs YOU to do is:
-     develop an inventory of items not covered by your child’s school
-     list the estimated cost of each item listed (sometimes schools will
give our sheets indicating cost – these would be helpful to
have as
well)
-     indicate whether your child attends a public or a Catholic school and
his/her grade level
-     specify your municipality
-     forward this information to the email or phone

• ** If you would like to further your involvement, you could also (1)
talk to a placement student about your experience with school fees or
(2) write to PACC about you experience with school fees. These stories
will be treated in utmost confidentiality, and again will be used to
advocate for change within the York Region District School Board (YRDSB).

We are NOT alone – Nova Scotia (2005) and British Columbia (2006) have
successfully banned all school fees considered necessary for the
curriculum. Their view is that every student has the right to a publicly
funded education, and their education experience should not be tied to
their ability to pay.

We support this philosophy and are optimistic you will help us in our
struggle to end all school fees in York Region. If you have any
questions or would like to share your story, please call Kim at 905-508-5018
ext. 235, or email at mckinnk@lao.on.ca.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. We hope to hear
from you soon!

Sincerely,

Ivana Srsen
Placement Student
Community Legal Clinic of York Region

2006 Musicians Sean Stephens and Giles Collins offer African drumming and Belly Dancers at June Community awareness and fundraiser event reminding of our own "third world" dilema right here!

Below Youthful members from Sacred Heart Schools Social Justice committee voice their disapproval of poverty!

Story Example:

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 and Chair of a poverty action group (PACC), I 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 despite being so loved the flick.Another invite 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 is 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, 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 key rope-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. 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


PACC MEMBERS!! Our Kids NEED YOUR HELP!!! READ BELOW!

For those of you who have child(ren) or know of parents with children in the public education system, we desperately need your help with an issue that affects you. PACC is currently meeting with the York Region District School Board and raising concerns of the two-tiered education system in York Region and the increasing financial burden of school fees on low-income families. We are arguing for a fee-free, accessible education for all children in York Region.

What PACC needs YOU to do is:
-     develop an inventory of items not covered by your child’s school
-     list the estimated cost of each item listed (sometimes schools will
give our sheets indicating cost – these would be helpful to
have as
well)
-     indicate whether your child attends a public or a Catholic school and
his/her grade level
-     specify your municipality
-     forward this information to the email or phone

• ** If you would like to further your involvement, you could also (1)
talk to a placement student about your experience with school fees or
(2) write to PACC about you experience with school fees. These stories
will be treated in utmost confidentiality, and again will be used to
advocate for change within the York Region District School Board (YRDSB).

We are NOT alone – Nova Scotia (2005) and British Columbia (2006) have
successfully banned all school fees considered necessary for the
curriculum. Their view is that every student has the right to a publicly
funded education, and their education experience should not be tied to
their ability to pay.

We support this philosophy and are optimistic you will help us in our
struggle to end all school fees in York Region. If you have any
questions or would like to share your story, please call Kim at 905-508-5018
ext. 235, or email at mckinnk@lao.on.ca.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. We hope to hear
from you soon!

Sincerely,

Ivana Srsen
Placement Student
Community Legal Clinic of York Region

Please make any cheques for PACC out to:
PACC

Please call should you have any enquiries

PACC (Poverty Action For Change Coalition)
Mail: 21 Dunlop St. Suite 200 Richmond Hill, ON L4C-2M6

To call: 289-221-0928

PACC All members Meetings Mulock Village, Newmarket
S of #9 Bathurst/Keith 1st lights W to Maciver N to 507 Needler Cres

All members meeting every first Mon month 9:30 am

Poverty Square-table Feb 20 Magna centre Newmarket 1:30 - 4:30 PM

Meet "Grapes Fisher" at The Friendly Neighbourhood Youth Road-Hockey Challenge 2008

The 4th annual F.N.Y.R.C. moves to the Main Street area in Downtown Newmarket in 2008 (March Fri 14, Sat 15) to accommodate the addition of more teams! In the first three years the challenge, organized cooperatively with the aid of The Canadian Mental Health Association (Y.R.), York Region Housing Corp and recently PACC and had raised funds for donations to great causes including the Canadian Crime Victims Foundation -last year adding an RESP Scholarship award, The Mike Thornhill Friendship Award - aiding one youth towards getting an education in honour of a former Newmarket youth who was tragically killed. Youths!! organize your own team and you could win this years $1500 RESP award!!!

Up to 16 teams will play to this year’s event for the Mulock Cup. The friendly tourney is open to (Youths) male or females up to age 18 as of December 31 2007
Teams should field a minimum 6 players to play or come as individuals and be placed on a team,however if short we will place players on your team.Team sponsors are already on standby covering registration however teams are encouraged to find/raise funds if they can.

Councilors Challenge - Fri 14

In addition to the regular tourney, this year will also feature a York Region "Northern 6" Town councilors and Parks & Rec Staff Challenge on Fri Mar 14 from 7 - 8:30 PM in the Newmarket Community Centre Parking lot(off Main) with a Kickoff Party to follow for the adult participants and volunteers and public at The New Granada Restaurant 209 Main St S Newmarket featuring Singing sensation Ava and also Led Sullivan

Let's Put Our Kids Back On The Streets!Sat Mar 15 registration 9 AM - 10:30 AM Newmarket Community Centre (or pre-register Fri Mar 14 6-8PM)

Whatever happened to neighbourhood road hockey?

Originally started in order to engage lower income youth in an organized activity and the community - the spirit of the event is also to keep a dying Canadian tradition alive by getting kids active through road-hockey, while learning camaraderie and leadership through forming their own teams - whether through neighbourhoods, schools, scouts or whatever. It will take a leader to start that process - part of our character-building scheme! Also encouraged is teams to challenge others to play and also hold practices / scrimmages leading up to the March-break-ending Saturday Mar 15 youth portion. - which will put them outside and active again - and for great causes!

Car!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also on the slate for the 2008 event- Team Skills competition (9:30 AM), an all welcome pick-up game, entertainment including International singing sensation- Newmarkets own AVA and CD signing - as well as vintage cars from Newmarket Car clubs,free hot chocolate for all courtesy of the Downtown Newmarket Lions Club and hot dogs for all the players,an intermission show ,Caricatures by Caroline, meet comedian "Grapes Fisher" with live play by play, and former Vancouver Canuck Steve Clarke.

Team-building kits can be issued anyone at no cost. The kits consist of, ideas on how to build a team, posters to call practices/pick up games, the rules, ideas on fundraising, a scripted ‘pitch” for finding a team sponsor. Team sponsors are expected to pay the entry fee of $200 per team. In addition to the RESP award, all proceeds raised, minus operating costs that shall not exceed 15% of the total raised, will go to PACC and “Operation Sparrow” equally.

Volunteers – refs, assemblers, officials, committee members most welcome at 905-836-7931

Below a response from Premier Mcguinty on the event as a model for character building!!

Thanks for your online message regarding youth character building. I
appreciate your informing me about your Road Hockey Challenge, and I
commend you for your interest in making a difference in the lives of the
youth in your community.

As the Honourable Mary Anne Chambers, Minister of Children and Youth
Services, would also be interested in your community-based program, I've
forwarded a copy of your correspondence to her for her information.

You may also be interested in our government's Character Development
Initiative, a $2-million program funded through the Ministry of Education
designed to inspire students to become caring, compassionate and
well-rounded citizens. Over the course of the next year, teams of experts
will work with parents, educators and students to identify the best ways
to promote character development in the classroom, with programs to be
in place for the 2007-08 school year. Elements of character education
could include learning the values of teamwork, co-operation, respect,
fairness and honesty, as well as the importance of our democratic system
and civic responsibility.

If you're interested in contributing to the development of this
initiative, you should contact your local school board. Contact information
for school boards can be found by clicking www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/sbinfo.

Thanks again for taking the time to contact me. Your input is always
welcome.

Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario

c:     The Honourable Mary Anne Chambers

New!! Oct 2007!!

PACC endorses Operation Sparrow, a new fund for lower income families to apply to have their kids and youths participate in organized physical and cultural activities regardless of ability to pay. Although PACC would like to see an end for the need of funds like this - all kids deserve to be able to play on the same playing field and need those opportunities today.

Operation Sparrow

What is it?

Operation Sparrow provides services or funding children ages 3 up to the age of 18 who live in Newmarket or Aurora to take part in organized activities when their parents or guardians cannot afford to.

Mission Statement:

Operation Sparrow’s aim is to promote and facilitate the participation of children ages 3 – 18 in physical and cultural activities, regardless of their ability to pay for services.

How do I apply?

An application must be filled out. Some conditions apply. You may pick up an application form at any of our designated pick up points including: The Town of Newmarket office (Mulock Dr)Robinson’s Karate (Aurora and Newmarket locations) Spotlight Theatre School(Main St Newmarket)and Canadian Mental Health Association (Aurora, Yonge St office).

Or!

Pick one up at dedicated locations,call the number below,or send us your address or email address to tpearson61@rogers.com and we’ll send you one. Applications will also be available online. Our guidelines accompany the application and must be adhered to. All applicable information must accompany your submission in order to be considered. Please note available spots in each activity offered by Operation Sparrow are given based on “most in need” as decided by our Board. Placements are limited. Should you need transportation only, please indicate on the application.


How Else?

You may also qualify by simply being referred to us by a group, organization, or agency recognized by The Operation Sparrow Executive Board. Those groups recognized as such are determined by The Board.

Now What?

Submit your forms by mailing them to the address provided in care of Operation Sparrow: 130 Davis Dr. Newmarket, On, Unit # 25, Box # 84 L3Y – 2N1

Call the ‘Sparrowline at 905-716-1447
or call 905-836-7931 for more.

Okay, I did all that!!

Great! Now relax, it may take our Board awhile to get to your application. Our Board members meet regularly and will review all applications with due diligence. Agreement on each successful applicant will be made by consensus.

The Board can decide to approve an application in whole or in part, deny it or defer it if more information is required. All decisions made by the Board are final and may be communicated verbally,in writing to the address or email given.

All information collected by Operation Sparrow is kept confidential and all Board members observe a strict code of conduct as witnessed in our pledge which each applicant must also make, as part of showing their commitment to participating.

Who sits on the Board?

In addition to PACC Chair Tom Pearson, others include police officers, a town councilor, a Board representative from Yellow Brick House, representatives from private business including Robinsons Karate and Spotlight Theatre School, and other concerned community leaders.

PACC has particularly paid attention that the application process be as intrusive as minimally needed, and that transportaion be an option as this is often an obstacle for lower income families.

Applicants agree to abide by the Student Creed and the principles of excellence.

Student Creed -

"I intend to develop myself in a positive manner, and to avoid anything that would reduce my mental growth or my physical health.

I intend to develop self-discipline, in order to bring out the best in myself and others.

I intend to use what I have learned in class constructively and defensively, to help myself and my fellow man, and never to be abusive or offensive".

Principles of Excellence

Modesty
Courtesy
Integrity
Self Control
Perseverance
Indomitable Spirit

Contact us: 130 Davis Dr. Newmarket, On, Unit # 25, Box # 84 L3Y – 2N1

Or Call the ‘Sparrowline at 905-716-1447 or www.povertyacc.com (Get Involved) for more.





:

So you’ve decided enough is enough! Good for you to do something about it by volunteering. PACC would love to have you as a member. Please read our mandate and terms of reference(Home page) and should you see a fit for yourself with our non-profit outfit then please contact us, fill out our member’s form online or email us. Our members participate by many means including attending meetings and/or making phone-calls,writing letters, volunteering time,by making financial contributions, sharing information/resources and generally advocating for the impoverished.

Below as presented by PACC to Minister of Social Services (Madeleine Meilleur)and senior Staff:

Good evening everyone, I’d first like to thank our esteemed and honourable hosts for having us all here today as we certainly can appreciate that you are all very busy. We are encouraged by the fact that you are taking the time to hear us and also by the fact that we have representation here from the federal level as well - from Ms. Stronach’s office, as we believe the solutions to end poverty in York Region, Ontario, and ultimately Canada, lie with cooperating, differing governmental levels; and so we see this as an opportunity to assist such a liaison and hopefully make it fruitful. As stated earlier, my name is Tom Pearson- Poverty Action for Change Coalition’s Chair. PACC is a unique grassroots community group made up of individuals, both marginalized and not, some of who are professionals working in positions that relate to poverty including the help sectors, and as well endorsing community assist organizations.

I’m here today, along with my fellow esteemed colleagues whom you’ve met, as well as fellow PACC member Linda (Roberts), whom I also might mention is the Grand-daughter of Lily Bow – a woman who gave a tremendous boost to the origins of the Liberal party, and indeed Canada, both Federally and Provincially. Lily who’s family fought in both world wars for Canada, started out involved in recruiting, send-offs, and ‘Tatoos” before turning to full time to politics, many times turning down the offer to run for MP and MPP as she preferred to create waves in her own way within the party by acting on various committees and serving as President of the Women’s Liberal Association for several years. When Lily first arrived here as a young teen from Britain in 1913 and settling in Toronto, they were aghast at the city which was a place ripe full of overwhelming poverty – the downtown was scarred with pathetic slums and squatters, and on the streets peddlers, rag collectors, and junk collectors. Poor People worked long hours in factories without holidays or breaks for $350 per year. Homeless children walked the streets looking for food and there was no minimum wage laws, no unemployment insurance, no old age pensions, no welfare, baby bonuses or medical health insurance. Linda’s grand- mother became a spirited champion of these things and remained vocal to the end at age 98 when Lily Bow died, with this being the 10th anniversary year of her death. May she rest in peace.

Lily had received personal accolades and recognition from everyone from Pierre Elliot Trudeau, to David Peterson, to former Consul General/Minister of Defense Barnett Danson and was good friends (and booster) of the late senator David Croll among many others. Without specifically meaning to she was also a pioneering champion of women’s rights paving the way for women in politics today. Feisty Lilly was known to go toe to toe with the likes of Former prime Minister the late Lester Pearson no less, which brings us to me- as you may have noted my last name is Pearson. .. Just kidding there is no connection there! ..But it would have been good.

My point is, that it was the Liberal party who are known historically to champion the poor and social concerns- no other! So it is somewhat ironic that we find ourselves here today with descendant Linda sitting here, herself a victim of downsizing from a long time held court house position and who has only been able to regain marginal unrelated part-time work since, trying to assist in convincing you that our underprivileged need more help- both financially and systematically- but it is also a boon- because as I pointed out, the liberal party is steeped in tradition of helping the disadvantaged and correcting social structural problems within government : that being said, I would like to acknowledge that you have made some positive changes and on the last budget you did increase the rates by 2% - with gradual added incentives that are supposed to eliminate the “clawback” to welfare recipient families in theory, over the next 3-5 years. The recent sustained rise in gas prices alone however has already taken care of that 2% raise for those that travel by car to work, and the recent elimination of paid school busses to high- schools for some in York Region, forcing them now to pay $65 per month for transit to keep their kids in school, eliminates it for others, and indeed increases their costs. Natural inflation will take care of the rest of this gradual fade-in leaving us right where we started at - with people in crisis. Those are just two small examples that I hope allows you to see that this immediate “ raise “, that averages maybe 18-28 dollars per family, does not even dent the problem today. Mr Mcguinty promised to eliminate the claw-back, not defer it, and I implore you to encourage him to honour his pledge immediately. I cannot stress enough how little this is doing to help even any one of the 50,00 people (using them) in York region to stop from using food banks. These increases you’ve made will not change that stat. whatsoever, in fact it will likely continue to increase under it. We encourage you to raise that income rate today to present day cost of living levels. A 20 % hike- not 2 - would have been closer to reality - to make a real marked difference- to levels like what pre-existed before the Mike Harris slash and punish era.

Also food banks used to be used in emergency situations, not as a reliance like it has become, and I believe it should be the role of every government to reduce them, not stock them. I mean no disrespect to the food-networks either, as I certainly think we currently must use them - and they do need more tools to do it efficiently- however we feel the long term goal should be not to need them- except for emergencies.

People have a right to live in dignity and that means buying their own fresh food - food they and their kids like -not what is dealt to them - like a correctional facility food line. This reliance also gives the perception to the public that food banks cover all the sustenance and nutrients they need to survive on, and this is not the case. Food bank food is not fresh meats or vegetables but cans, rice etc and also often rancid or past due - with flies/bugs commonly accompanying rations. There are no regulations of the food banks, and thus people sometimes accidentally get poisoned food, which is why recipients are made to sign waivers before accepting it. No, food banks are not a working solution to extreme poverty and having to use one is another chip out of ones esteem, each and every time.

The stories contained in our book here, Voices From The Edge, will tell you that the 2007 budget additions are not enough. Just read one story, any one, and you will know. Some of the financial information may be outdated however the stories aren’t and they are real. These families - the one’s still intact- and individuals, continue to need help today, before they drown in a vat of mental health soup. As time passes marginalized income recipients’ (especially Odsp and workfare recipients) mental health declines significantly under the present set up, further adding to the dilemma by affecting the children. Funding children’s mental health, which you addressed in the budget, to your credit, is a start, but without treating the parents you are not treating the stem source, as this is where it mostly filters from and affects the children in many adverse ways.

I have witnessed marginalized persons that are demoralized both spiritually and esteem wise - by coarse and insensitive treatment and stigma they’ve received at the hands of society from social workers, to doctors, dentists, to schools, to colleagues, to strangers and it all takes a toll. Some have a hard time even leaving their front doors since because they have transformed into depressed, low self-esteem ridden individuals- many are single parents destitute for help. They need cheer leaders not demoralizers and PACC believes the system could use an overhaul in this area. Marginalized people’s rights are routinely taken advantage of in many situations as the fear to speak out or stand up for themselves, often outweighs the possibility of being displaced from income or housing.

Increasingly individuals and families are turning to us for help we cannot possibly give, and this is why we feel strongly that a type of ‘Independent Advocacy Commission” needs to be set up, and as well we feel that specialized sensitivity training needs to be implemented immediately across the board to all staff. Improvements were made by your ministry when dealing with ODSP recipients - as they are no longer threatened as often with being displaced due to incomes being held back for various reasons (usually a missing insignificant document), however one wonders why the others cannot be given similar dignified and stress reduced treatment. Routine notices that get sent workfare recipients allowing for action within 10 days or face being cut off their income - can often get lost or delivered to the wrong address resulting in individuals losing their income - not to mention the stress caused by simply receiving a notice. Usually the discrepancy is rectified, but usually after the fact and when it’s too late to save your rent cheque from bouncing or hydro or insurance or phone, and resulting in penalties etc – some that can never be reversed. Credit ratings if you had any are now non-existent which adds a future barrier to those trying to arise from the social system. In many cases a simple phone-call and not a notice would have sufficed and avoided these unnecessary hardships. These are systems changes that can be done that do not cost money – but done just by simply rearranging procedure.

Eliminating overpayment charges to recipients across the board could also instantly put extra income back into recipients’ pockets immediately as often the “overpayments’ were the fault of the Ministry and not the individual, yet they must then take a monthly cut when it is systematically taken off their cheques – payments that act as an income reducer sometimes lasting years.


Recently, this past January 15 on the years first snow storm a PACC member confided to me as he was moving during an eviction from Regional Housing - said to me in broken English, “Tommy, the lady (at housing) looked at me and she told me, “I will destroy you”, - this for having the audacity to stand up for his family when he fought being evicted. And this (housing/ workfare) was supposed to be his safety net, and this country his sanctuary. He suffered health problems too. Luckily he has had our friends with the Homelessness Alliance and others helping with the “transition” to being homeless. Last I spoke, his son was having troubles sleeping at the shelter. Their story is systematic of what I hear from marginalized residents throughout the system across all boundaries. Our book captures some of those stories, and I feel these are stories (and issues) you need to hear before setting off again in any direction affecting marginalized people.

You have an opportunity to change the very existence of people’s lives here today and in the future, by agreeing to go ahead and make significant changes. We’d also like you to commit either yourselves or a senior person, to participate in an across the region “square- table” with multi governmental levels participating and others (aid organizations, community groups, church reps etc) in order to assist making some real fine tuning changes affecting poverty. We’d like this to be an annual event and suggest Oct 17 International Day for The Eradication of Poverty as the declared day to hold such an event on (or an agreed upon date during the week of). We feel this idea mirrors your own mandate and policies on creating more partnerships and acting in unison with the community. We have many verbal commitments to this “square-table” idea already, but yours today would certainly add persuasive measure to ensure others join in.

We’d also like to know from the honourable Minister, Deputy Minister and Senior advisors what specific direction(s) you are heading in as a ministry, so that we can move with you in our goal setting up for our “square-table” and beyond. That way we can further work collaboratively, collectively, towards a common end.

So in conclusion, I implore your administration to take a stand today. Accept responsibility for mistakes of past governments and move forward by bringing marginalized income levels to realistic livable levels – by creating your own legacy; one of real change, one that raises spirits and hopes of a future not wrought with grief, worry, hunger, and ultimately the destruction of people’s beings. I promise you it will be remembered by all residents in a positive light come elections day, not that that should be a reason to do so.

As Lily Bow once declared in a letter to the editor printed in the 1960’s in the fight for medicaid for the poor during Bob Nixon’s drive to power - ‘I am asking you to visit your Liberal Committee rooms and study all their ideas and platforms. For a better deal for you, me, and our families, vote liberal on election day. Help me and others like me get these things while I’m still living, and in doing so help yourself and others. Remember, Canada is the greatest country in the world, no other can match it. Lets keep it that way and lets improve Ontario. Only your vote can do it” It worked for them then - and will work for you today!

We hope that you can continue this honoured liberal tradition of championing the underprivileged by agreeing to our proposals and proposed commitments asked of here today.

Thank-you
Tom Pearson
Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) Chair


The following was sent from the "MAKE POVERTY HISTORY " Campaign: Add your voice to the growing call for a poverty reduction strategy

One of the specific things the Make Poverty History platform calls for as a way to end child poverty in Canada is “involving groups where poverty is predominant, such as Aboriginal People, women, minorities and youth in the design and implementation of a domestic poverty reduction strategy.”

Now there is a way you can contribute to designing such a strategy. The National Council of Welfare, an independent body established to advise the government on social development, has recently launched a web-based survey to seek input from Canadians on developing a poverty reduction strategy for Canada. They want to hear from individuals and organizations about why you think there is so much poverty in Canada and what you think we can do about it.

To participate click on: https://media6.magma.ca/www.leverus.com/ncw/?refererid=12

The more people who participate in this survey, the more the results will have to be taken seriously by government.

Thanks,

Dennis Howlett
Coordinator, Make Poverty History


No time? That’s okay, purchase PACC's book Voices From The Edge; Living in Poverty, for $10 plus delivery online, pick up a copy at our Dunlop St. location,or participating Chapter's and Indigo Bookstores! These are true testimonials of individuals and families in York Region living in poverty written(mostly)in their own words. The stories will astound you! We are a volunteer-run community based organization therefore receive little funding as yet. Membership does not require payment of any fee but we do suggest a donation of any size, only if you can afford it.

PACC currently meets in Richmond Hill and in Newmarket,and has recently started a youth chapter and a new chapter in Keswick as well! Attend in your area, start up a chapter, make a call, whatever your level of participation if you share our vision we’ll share our resources and enthusiasm with you.

Please see/use the links on this page to visit and support our supporting organizations and businesses.
www.delihousecatering.ca for your York Region event.

Please make any cheques for PACC out to: PACC
Please call should you have any enquiries

PACC (Poverty Action For Change Coalition)
Mail: 21 Dunlop St. Suite 200 Richmond Hill, Ont
L4C-2M6
To call: 289-221-0928