PACC has agreed in principle thus far regarding a possible conference on poverty - on condition that the conference lead to action. The conference has also been agreed to in principle thus far by Belinda Stronach, whom also stressed wanting a structure to our conference that would result in action.

We have thus far agreed to go forward to form a wish list of possible participants for the "square-table" symposium/conference which will be complete with opportunity for some marginalized members' plights to be heard first-hand.

PACC has also just attended as guests at the the Pan Canadian Evaluation in Montreal in Jan 2007. This evaluation is an annual in the 20th year of the International Eradication of Poverty Days worldwide.

     PACC Itinerary for Thursday, June 1st     
Location: GOODTIME Cafe 17080 Bathurst St, Newmarket, Press call 289-221-0928

7:30 pm- 7:50 pm light refreshments,
Music by Youth performing trio, Killing Independent George

7:50 pm greetings by Host/Chair Tom Pearson, welcome and brief intro to PACC
Accolades given to book storytellers followed by 1st book excerpt reading by Miss York Region, Lorraine Hanoun

8:05 pm
African Drums & Dancing group, featuring Producer/Drummer
Giles Collins of The Chaos System

8:20 pm
2nd book excerpt reading

8:25 pm
Entertainment: Newmarket Music Festival of Arts winner Sean Stephens, vocals, guitar, didgeridoo, bongos

8:50 pm
Logo winner Carly Fraser introduced, awarded, and she to make a statement
Ms. Fraser to receive $50 prize from PACC and congratulations letter signed from Aurora/Newmarket member of Parliament Belinda Stronach. She will address any Press questions at this time only.

9:10 PM
Thank – You ’s and last excerpt reading

9:15 pm- 10 pm
Open Stage Musical entertainment featuring Hurricane Mike Thompson, who’ s original song about being homeless, “Colder Days” was recently featured by Toronto newspaper Columnist, Mark Bonokoski

Special Note: Recipient award winner Carly Fraser, age 13, is the eldest of 3 sisters, a student with over a 90% average whom attends school at Park Ave Public. Carly entered through her St. James Anglican Church in Sharon, a staunch PACC supporter. PACC sees Ms. Stronach’s letter to Ms. Fraser as an admission of a poverty issue in the region and as a positive, small step, towards attending to and amending the problem. PACC looks forward to meeting with Ms. Stronach in the future to help accomplish this goal.

FOLLOW UP: This event was a resounding success. Special thanks to all the volunteers who made this event possible, and of course the talent. Special thanks to PACC Youth member Andrew for his hard pre-event work, to Caroline who's talented caricature drawings brought us much needed revenue, to Anne and Judy who(wo)manned the book sales and to Lorraine Hanoun, Miss York Region, who also read a story from our book , VOICES FROM THE EDGE;living in poverty(in York Region), aloud onstage and to Stronach representative Holly Piotrowski who paid more than lip service by not only attending but staying through the evening.I think we really opened some eyes this night. A full house, a mixture of PACCers, musicians friends and locals, greeted the hosts GOODTIME Cafe for most of the evening and so we can say all round it was a great night. Liberal/Era Banner writer Angelica Blenich was also in attendance so watch for her article on poverty in an upcoming issue!Thanks to all those who came out in support and to those who didn't your loss as you missed a great show and a great opportunity to show your support for the cause!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 24 2006 Media Contact: 289-221-0928

PACC, Poverty Action For Change Coalition (of York Region) has chosen World Poverty Day to announce the bookstore release of their controversial book, Voices From The Edge; Living In Poverty (in York Region) now available at Richmond Hill’s (8705) Yonge St. Indigo location. Subsequent releases will be held at other York Region Indigo and Chapter’s Book Stores. The book tells stories of impoverished York residents in their own words of how they and their families have been forced to exist, and is designed to not only educate the public to their plight (due to little media coverage) but to also embarrass politicians into action. The group (PACC) has recently been promised an audience with Belinda Stronach and is now focusing on contacting regional politicians.

Spokesperson and book co-author Tom Pearson will be on hand on Saturday April 29 at Indigo Richmond Hill from 1 to 4 PM, signing books and recruiting new members for PACC. Recent events such as a budget offering only a 3% increase to those most in need on ODSP (Ontario’s disabilities support program) and attention paid to hunger striker Sara Anderson from Peterborough, has drawn some attention to the plight of the hundreds of thousands affected in Ontario.

Says Mr. Pearson; “ There are now over 50,000 people in York Region alone using the food-banks for survival. 20,000 of these are our children. Whereas food-banks were once the exception they have now become a necessity, and many more still are too embarrassed to ask for a handout and simply go without. Something is terribly wrong when such a rich region/society forces its most vulnerable to beg.”

To find out more about PACC or to order a copy of the book online visit www.povertyacc.com

The Sat May 1 Indigo Bookstore release for our book, Voices From The Edge;living in poverty, was a phenominal success.

Many thanks for all involved who made it happen including the very professional Indigo management/staff, and special thanks to Jen for doing the footwork to enable us to even get the book sold in there. Special thanks also to Linda who assisted Tom in representing the book and PACC onsite at Indigo.
Indigo's customers(and staff)were very receptive to our cause, and sales that day were noticebly brisk while our(Wo)manpower was there!Bestsellers of the day!?In addition to the book sales, PACC also recruited 8 new members in the three hours that we attended, so great going!

The Book will continue to be on sale, due to its initial successful launch, at Indigo Richmond Hill(8705 Yonge St.) for 90 days at which time it will be reviewed!!! Good job All!!

A tribute to the Storybook Storytellers as well as our Youth logo designer winner Carly Fraser will be held Thurs June 1 2006 7:30 -10 PM at GOODTIME Cafe 17080 Bathurst St in Newmarket N of Mulock.

Stay tuned for new releases, "Coming to a theatre(or bookstore) near you!!

http://www.snapnewmarket.com/index.php?option=com_sngevents&id[]=187655


Latest article:social audit 2010

http://www.yorkregion.com/news/local/article/828950--new-poor-a-disturbing-phenomenon

Latest press release:


P 1 / 2 –

For Immediate Release – Wednesday April 21 2010
More info Contact: 289-221-0928 or 1-866-454-9736 – ex 205

RE: Editorial – ISARC – Social Audit

York Region’s contribution to the ISARC social audit; a process using a collaboration of faiths and local host community groups every 5-6 years across Ontario; included Y.R. last Tuesday for the 1st time since they began in 1986. The event was an unadulterated success by any standards with testimonials from 24 individuals living in poverty from across York Region addressing the Rapporteurs, and many others willing. Overflow and participants’ additional video statements were also recorded to be utilized by local host organization, PACC for future media and documentary purposes.

From the outset, the planning team rigorously adhered to providing an atmosphere and set-up that allowed those who participated (or not), to do so with dignity, in a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere - and one that left attendees leaving with a positive feeling. To that end, York Region uniquely added “Greeters”, who simply made people feel welcome while waiting to speak or just dropping in. Initial feedback enthusiastically points to this having being accomplished. As attendees arrived, the Greeters, some with direct experience, welcomed people in by accompanying them in and to the tables of food and refreshments and to a seat if waiting and as the day got rolling at both locations, conversations naturally occurred among attendees - and with the other elements of information / advice being available, a kids playroom, music and an an atmosphere that created a “safe’ environment to share - they did. Many hung out as long as possible offering help anyway they could.

Said Bruce Voogd, Coordinator Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition, who attended all day in Newmarket,

“You guys did a great job. You could really sense a positive vibe in the room.”

Julie Mark, a Richmond Hill participant and victim of Lyme’s disease, felt something as well.

“For once I felt empowered, that someone is paying attention to what it’s like for people such as me to live in these types of situations. The “one-liner” I have been saying since yesterday is this "I've finally come out of the poverty closet". After telling it all (my story) yesterday, I am not ashamed now to tell people I come in contact with how I live, and why I live that way. It's not as if I chose to be disabled! Or (sic) chose to be unemployed. So why should I feel bad about it as if it is a dirty secret?”

With a who’s who list for Rapporteurs - Daisy Wai in the south location as well as John Rogers and Charles Beer in the north, United Way York Region CEO Danieli Zanotti facilitating the municipal politicians focus group - and with having additionally attracted more than 25 agencies and 14 politicians to participate, the well planned audit was bound to have a shot at succeeding.

The afternoon sessions were very productive, with participation levels from the agencies / frontline workers warranting a second focus group added; and with plenty of facilitating talent on hand to keep the focus, it worked well. Each group of agencies identified key barriers they faced, with sessions recorded by ‘recorders”. Emerging themes from those discussions will be identified and listed in the final report. Ditto for the politician’s sessions – also vigourous - but also very encouraging and a feat to have assembled such a grouping of collaborative municipal players.


P2 / 2

Said Tom Pearson in concluding address to the event at the ‘traditional” after- dinner,

“As many of you likely know I’ve attended many of these types of events… and frankly we are choosy these days about which forums to enter or encourage people to step forward for. But this one I believe could really make a difference and I’m proud to have been a part of it. This was a truly collaborative team that included agencies, individuals, and those with poverty experience and it was great to be able to sit back and watch everyone go to it so we could concentrate on making this special….I’m not used to that…and Yvonne was great to work with.”

The end of day dinner featured insights and reflections around the table from organizers and Rapporteurs, each having been moved by their experience, and of course this is the hope; that the influence of what everyone witnessed affects them beyond the forum, so others feel and hear their reflections in their everyday and professional lives through their actions, attitudes, and words.

Dinner ended with original songs about poverty by Fred Joly who also earlier provided atmospheric acoustics and song throughout the morning…his melodic, feeling pieces – including what is becoming his signature song, “Behind The Mask,” coming from experience – proved the finale that provided the perfect exclamation on the day.
Joly’s performances will be made available via weblink.

A local report prepared using the audit input collected by Co-Convenors Tom Pearson, Chairman of the Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) and Yvonne Kelly, Program Coordinator of the York Region Food Network will be drawn up to be released to the media at a date in the near future after which all audits from across Ontario will by ISARC for use in policy advisement with federal and provincial governments as well as released in book form.


Watch for YR clips / postings on the Poverty Action for Change website at www.povertyacc.com.


For Immediate Release – Mon April 12 2010
Re: ISARC – Social Audit – York Region
Date: April 20 2010 Media contact: 289-221-0928
Times: South Location 9am – 1:00 pm – North Location: 9am – 6pm
Locations: Richmond Hill Central Library (south); 510 Penrose (north)
North – 510 Penrose St Newmarket – please note - no media access on location before 6 pm
South - Richmond Hill Public Library – 1 Atkinson St – please note no media allowed at this location

Social Audit – York Region 1st – A Powerful Voice for Change

York Region will play host for the first time, as part of the ISARC interfaith social audit which has been conducting social audits across Ontario since 1986. ISARC – The Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition – is a provincial wide network of faith groups working together for greater social justice. ISARC meets and works with leaders from all political parties to develop and support legislation to provide help to those most in need via province-wide hearings, consultations and briefings, presentations to legislative committees, and through publications and resources that give a voice to those in poverty.

York Region’s participation was made possible through the lobbying efforts of the Poverty Action for Change Coalition who were convincing in their presentation viewed by ISARC representatives earlier this year. As the chosen host group, the key was to form a planning team from organizations and individuals across York Region; co-conveners Tom Pearson (PACC) and Yvonne Kelly (York Region Food Network) have worked diligently to achieve this. They have put together a collaborative planning team which has laid the foundation for what they hope will be a successful social audit.

Part of the make-up of the audit – apart from forming a planning team – is choosing key players such as the “Rapporteurs”.A Rapporteur is a person whose opinion is widely respected in the area in which the audit is held who listens to the stories from those living in poverty and whose reflections are recorded alongside those stories. With the decision to hold two (north/south) locations for story collecting in York Region, the planning team was fortunate enough to attract several highly qualified potential candidates. Ultimately the group chose Daisy Wai for the south and John Rogers for the north.

Daisy is well known in the business community as founder and President of Ad2000 and Beyond Advertising. She is actively involved in her community in a number of capacities including being a member of the Board of Trustees for the York Central Hospital. Daisy has received numerous awards for her contributions to the community and is actively involved in the Chinese Christian community. She has been an enthusiastic supporter of the social audit from the beginning. Daisy had the following comments to make about her own experience as a newcomer to Canada as well as our collective responsibility as a caring community.
“I still recall the struggles I had when I first immigrated to Canada. It was hard, for my husband and me, to take care of a family with 4 children. I was encouraged and helped by the church we attended. It’s been 30 years now, we are more settled. With things growing rapidly around us, sometimes we forget those who are still in need. This is definitely the time for us to reach out to support others around us, very much the same way that we were supported before. Not only is this our responsibility, it helps us to count our blessings, treasure and enjoy what we have.”

Likewise Mr. Rogers, a former Mayor of Georgina and member of York Region Council as well as former Chair of the Board of Directors for the United Way of York Region and Co-Chair of the Central Lhin Advisory Group to name some of his past accomplishments was not a tough sell; He has embraced the role with vigour., Said Mr Rogers about his impending role in the social audit,….
"I am honoured to be asked to help in a very important process that is being held for the first time in York Region. It is critical that all members of our community are heard, and the social audit process I am sure will bring very important views and stories forward to the public’s attention and as well assist politicians in addressing poverty more effectively. “John Rogers ..Contined..The 1st part of the day – 9am 1pm- will focus on the recording of the stories from those living in poverty. Each location plans to make it “drop-in” friendly for anyone living in poverty whether they are able to speak to the audit or not, offering a welcome team, advice, info, snacks, coffee, nutrition and toys for kids. Daycare and transportation have also been arranged for those with an advanced booking.

The afternoon audit focus groups also involve front-line workers, and later on local politicians from across the Region. Danieli Zanotti , CEO for the United Way of York Region will facilitate the politicians focus group.

Reports from the audit are then prepared and forwarded to ISARC to begin the next steps towards the final publication, Queens Park and beyond.A media report will also be put together.

Immediate release: April 16 – Update to previous release – RE: Charles Beer Added
ISARC Social Audit York Region - Event Date: Tues April 20 2010
Locations: 1 Atkinson St Richmond Hill, 510 Penrose St Newmarket
9AM – 1PM R Hill – NO MEDIA – 9AM – 6:30 PM Newmarket – MEDIA after 6pm only.
Please note a local MEDIA REPORT will be released at a date after the audit.
3rd Rapporteur added as Popularity of Social Audit Increases
The YR ISARC Social Audit team is pleased to announce the addition of Charles Beer as a Rapporteur, joining previously announced Daisy Wai and John Rogers in assisting in the duties of the role. Rapporteurs listen to participants and stories from those living on low income and provide observational reports afterwards. With the audit growing in the number of participants, coinciding with Mr. Beer returning from abroad and being available, the team decided he was too valuable an asset to pass-up.
Charles Beer is currently a Principal with Counsel Public Affairs located in Toronto. Counsel provides strategic advice to a wide range of public and private sector clients as well as to the non-profit sector.
From October 2003 until September 2004 Charles served as Chief of Staff to the Honourable George Smitherman, Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long Term Care. From May 1998 to July 2003 he was the President and CEO of the Canadian Executive Service Organization.CESO’s purpose is to transfer Canadian expertise to both private and public sector organizations in developing nations, in emerging market economics of Europe and the former Soviet Union and in Canadian Aboriginal communities.
Prior to joining CESO, Charles spent 23 years in the Ontario government, serving from 1987 to 1995, as a member of the provincial parliament. During this time, he was Minister of Community and Social Services and Minister responsible for Francophone Affairs.
He was also Chair, parliamentary assistant or critic for a number of ministries and legislative committees and served in senior positions in ministries relating to citizenship, culture and recreation, intergovernmental affairs, and treasury and economics, and was executive director of the office of the leader of the official opposition from 1977 to 1981 among other experience. He currently sits on the boards related to health and education.
The York Region ISARC social audit is being Co-Convened by Yvonne Kelly of the York Region Food Network and Tom Pearson, Chairman of the Poverty Action for Change Coalition who have formed a diverse collaborative team from community agencies, concerned individuals, and those living in poverty. The audit will hear from those in poverty, those working in the field and politicians; and present a focused report to take forward to Queens Park.
For more information regarding the social audit visit
www.isarc.ca – www.povertyacc.com – or www.yrfn.ca

Toront Star PACCer guest column Sat Mar 6 2010
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/article/775189--an-investment-that-would-pay-off

Social Audit

http://www.yorkregion.com/article/102964

as a result of our release below

For Immediate Release: Tues Feb 20 2010 P1/2
Hearing to include York Region for 1st Time!
ISARC – Interfaith Social Audit
Media Contact: 289-221-0928

What is it like to live in poverty? What is it like to not have enough to pay for food and rent? What is it like to have to resort to the local food bank or be too proud to? What is it like to tell your children you cannot afford to buy them new clothes or school trips?
As part of a provincial Social Audit, people living in Y.R. will get a chance to speak out (April 20010) regarding their lived experiences of poverty at one of several province wide Hearings.

“Y.R. has long had a reputation of being this wonderfully prosperous region, however I think the recession has brought the brutal reality of poverty to our doors in increasing numbers exposing how vulnerable and extensively ingrained we really are,” says Tom Pearson Chairman of Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) and Co-Convener of the Y.R. audit.

Living in poverty is not just restricted to persons who are recipients of Ontario Works or of the Ontario Disability Support Program. People working hard in low paying jobs are also falling into poverty. As Ontario weathers the recession, more and more individuals and families are falling into poverty and homelessness.

“Statistics don’t lie and they tell us poverty has increased significantly in YR”, Co-Convener of the social audit and YR Food Network Programs Coordinator Yvonne Kelly states, “we hope the audit will act as an aid in forming food security, policy, and solutions”

Social service providers, front-line workers and local politicians will also have opportunity to reveal thoughts and messages in regards to poverty issues as part of the audit’s set-up.

In May 2010, participants from this and other provincial Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition (ISARC) Hearings will gather at Queen’s Park with others from across Ontario, to share their lived experiences of poverty with the Members of the Provincial Parliament. ISARC hopes that these stories will move the Ontario government to realize that more needs to be done to eliminate poverty across our province.

The Social Audit is being sponsored by ISARC and is supported by religious leaders and other citizens from our area and across the province. Since 1986, ISARC has provided a means for faith communities to work together for social justice and to contribute to new public policies based on greater justice and dignity for Ontarians marginalized by poverty.

For further information, to participate in the audit by telling your story or join the planning committee, please contact: 905-967-0428 ext: 205

ISARC History P2/2


The Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition (ISARC) is a provincial network of faith groups working together for greater social justice. ISARC was born out of the hope that together a coalition of faith groups could contribute to new public policies based upon greater justice and dignity for Ontarians marginalized by poverty.

In 1986 the Ontario government appointed an independent Social Assistance Review Committee (SARC) to study, consult, and make recommendations on the future of welfare. ISARC's original mandate was to provide advice to that Committee. In the past decade, in concert with many other concerned groups, ISARC has advocated in support of SARC's original recommendations for an adequate, accessible, fair, and accountable
social assistance system.

ISARC brings together representatives and members of faith groups to discuss the root causes of poverty, addressing issues of hunger, and homelessness in Ontario. ISARC meets and works with leaders from all political parties to support and develop legislation that will provide help to those most in need. ISARC has hosted province-wide hearings, held consultations and briefings, made presentations to legislative committees, and developed publications and resources that give a voice to low-income people.

This central message, shared by religious communities throughout the world, inspires people of faith to respond to our neighbours in need. When anyone is hungry while others have too much to eat, when anyone has no shelter while others live in luxury, or when anyone lives in poverty while others enjoy affluence, justice is not present. Where justice is not present, the quality of all our lives and communities disappears. Justice is the mutual responsibility of individuals, communities, and government working together for a better future.

Contact:
Brice Balmer, Director
Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition
P.O. Box 25067 – SDM
Kitchener, ON N2A 4A5
(519) 884-0710 x 3927
balmer@isarc.ca


For Immediate Release: Oct 16 2009
Make Poverty History on Oct 17 – International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Location: Fairy Lake Park Amphitheatre, Newmarket, Ont (S of Water & Eagle St)

Date: Sat Oct 17 Contact: 289-221-0928 or TP.ENTERTAINMENT@hotmail.com

Time: 1-5PM – Free Healthy Food – 1- 2:30 – Opening Ceremonies, Keynote Speakers and Stand-Up Count – 3:00
Open Mic 3:05 - Entertainment 3:30 – 5

For Immediate Release: Fri Oct 16 2009
Make Poverty History on Oct 17 – International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Location: Fairy Lake Park Amphitheatre, Newmarket, Ont (SE of Main & Eagle St)

Date: Sat Oct 17 Contact: 289-221-0928 or TP.ENTERTAINMENT@hotmail.com

Time: 1-5PM – Free Healthy Food – 1- 2:30 – Opening Ceremonies, Keynote Speakers 2:00 Stand-Up Count – 3:00 - Open Mic: 3:05 - Entertainment 3:30 – 5

For Editorial: PACC and MPH along with community partners including the York Region Food Network host York Region’s event for Oct 17 – International Day for the Eradication of Poverty also known as World Day to End Extreme Poverty - at Fairy Lake Park in Newmarket,Ont Canada. This day was created to give a voice to those in poverty. Come out and support a worldwide movement – last year over 116 million people stood up at once against poverty - to set a world record and the stand-up action hopes to do the same this year. York Region’s representative event features free hot &cold healthy foods while supplies last, a permanent park rock/plaque dedication, information booths, ‘Do The Math” action centre, entertainment, and Speakers including:

Single Mom (and breast cancer survivor) “Donna”, and her young son, who are homeless victims of toxic mold poisoning, now scrambling to find a safe, affordable place to move into in York Region.

‘Steve’ who survived an intense rehab program and now just survives, ‘Amira” persecuted for being a Christian in another country, she cannot even find volunteer work here assisting women – even with a masters degree, ”Cindy’ a community developer who does the grassroots work in her lower income community – without pay! Sam - a long time immigrant and displaced farmer now living out a nightmare and hoping (for help) to fend off another winter of having to beg disability support for heat costs… and other powerful real voices!

More Speakers include Host (PACC and MPHYR’s) Tom Pearson, York Region Alliance to End Homelessness’ Jane Wedlock, YR Legal Clinic Director Dennis Bailey, Regional Councilor John Taylor, Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, MP Lois Brown, Simon Strelchik recently nominated Thornhill Federal NDP Candidate , Director of the York Region Food Network – Joan Stonehocker, Sarey Caplan Community Development Coordinator with the CMHA YR, Rev Robin Wardlaw &, senior YR resident & Author Ivan Prokopchuk.
The stage & microphone will also be made available during an “Open Mic” whereby anyone wishing to speak out about poverty may do so. Similarly during the entertainment portion attendees will be offered an opportunity to “sing out’ against poverty. Instrumentalists & hand drummers welcome as well and accompanying c.d.’s can be played.

Feature Entertainment includes – Schtik Jagger, Guitarist Freedom Chuck, Single Mom and former street performer singer Brenda Bakos, Singer Stephanie Rudd, Youth Singer Gregory Carbis, “Spotlight Theatre’ present scenes from R.E.N.T., Singer / guitar Johnny Ellis from the band ‘Clean Fill Wanted”, Craig Machlachlan Canada’s ‘marijuana comic” tackles poverty, original poverty inspired works by Singer/songwriter writer Fred Joly & Youth Singer/songwriter sensation Kelly Moniz …. and …YOU!.

“Stand up” count at 3pm.You may see more or register to stand up on Oct 17 should you be unable to attend at:
www.povertyacc.com (get involved) or www.makepovertyhistory.ca



Follow PACC & Make Poverty History YR's Tom Pearson's tweets as the countdown to the stand-up event proceeds!
http://twitter.com/tpentertainment

Immediate Release: Mar 17 2008
RE: Results: 2008 Youth Road Hockey Challenge

Lets put our kids back on the streets! Help save a great Canadian tradition- hug a stick!

The Friendly Neighbourhood Youth Road Hockey Challenge 2008 was greeted Fri and Saturday (Mar 14,15) past with spectacular weather and a great turnout as hundreds of onlookers and youthful participants took in the 2 day event starting with Friday night’s Town Council Challenge which faced-off the Newmarket Mayor, Council, and “ringers” against the Super Cities MS Walk team with the towners winning 5-3.

With 9 teams from as far as Georgina, the Saturday main event youth tourney pitted mostly neighbourhood against neighbourhood in friendly shinny clashes to crown winners - splashed with comedy pay-by-play - and one youth chosen for the Mike Thornhill Friendship Award. The Newmarket Mayors Charity Golf Classic “pick-up game - free to all - was a big hit as well with parents and kids alike taking part.

The Magna “Mulock Hawks” won the consolation finals over Super Cities MS Jr. Walkers by a score of 13-7 while the P&C Compostech “Roywood Redmen” defeated the Newmarket Lions Club “Yo Mama’s” (from Yonge & Mulock) in a close final 7-6, to win the Mulock Cup.

Lester Sanchez, 17, of the Brayfield Bears, won the friendship award, a $1500 RESP sponsored by PACC, Young Drivers of Canada and the Roadhouse and Rose Funeral Home - with an excerpt of his nomination from the (Newmarket) Brayfield Community Association reading - “Lester has been a great asset to the community- he delivers all our flyers every week without fail and is there whenever needed. He has taken on a leadership role with the road hockey team and is an excellent role model working part time as well as continuing on with his education.”

The 4th annual challenge, which started off in a small mixed-income community, raised about $3,000 for the causes through sponsors and donations and is a tremendous community-nurturing event - in addition to a great tool to get youths active during march break no less - is already looking towards expanding next year.

Release by: TP Entertainment & Media

Media call - 289-221-0928
Photo –ops- Fri Mar 14 7 PM parking lot Newmarket Community Centre
Fri Mar 14 - 9:00 PM Gala Granada Restaurant 209 Main St S
Sat Mar 15 9:30 AM – 11:00 game action – parking lot ‘B & C”
Sat Mar 15 4 PM Finals action / outdoor entertainment / trophy

For Immediate Release:
Tues Mar 4 – 2008 -
RE: Announcement / Change in venue


Whatever Happened To Road-hockey?!

Keep a Great Canadian tradition alive!!

The 4th annual Friendly Neighbourhood Youth Road Hockey Challenge starts Fri March 14 at 7 PM with a town councilors and recreation staff challenge held in the Newmarket Community Center ‘s north parking lots followed by an (doors open 8 pm) ‘Opening Face-Off Gala” inside the nearby New Granada Restaurant located at 209 Main St South Newmarket. Councilors, staff, ‘ringers”, and other challengers including a team from the MS Walk, will lead by example by getting out and playing in a mini tourney preceding the youth challenge which happens the following day. TP Entertainment’s ‘Grapes” Fisher will add some colour comedy play by play and drop the ceremonial opening face-off between Mayor Van Bynen and a youth player nominated for the $1500 Mike Thornhill Friendship Award. As well the national anthem will be sung by international singing sensation Newmarket’s own AVA who will also perform and attend a CD signing at The Granada Restaurant at 9 PM with 50% of sales going to this years causes PACC as well as Operation Sparrow a new fund for lower income families for kids to participate free in organized activities including karate, theatre school, ball hockey and transportation. Other Gala performers include Led Sullivan specializing in Neil Young, The Beatles, and other bands from that era.

The youth portion of the event takes place on Saturday March 15 2008 with registration from 9 AM – 10:30 AM in the community centre followed by the skills competition at 9:30 AM and tournament games beginning at 10:30 in the adjacent north parking lots. The finals and consolation start at 4 PM – 6 PM with more comedy antics from play by player ‘Grapes Fisher” and as well a live national anthem rendition. The event hopes to get youth active again through March-break as they prepare for Saturdays tourney all the while raising funds for great causes including one youth to win The Mike Thornhill Friendship Award given in honour of a former (Newmarket) Mulock Village resident where the tourney started, who’s life was tragically taken outside a donutshop. This $1500 education award will be given to one youth nominated by peers and chosen as the best example of showing leadership in community relationships and friendship building ability as opposed to hockey skills.

For Immediate Release: Feb 14 2008
RE: Editorial

Committed group ‘makes poverty history” with first ever action forum in York Region to focus on poverty reduction.

The Poverty Action for Change Coalition (PACC) is pleased to announce that a series of non-partisan “square-table’ meetings, co-paneled by leading politicians from all levels of government in Northern York Region with the goal of reducing Poverty in the region, is set to begin with the 1st in the series of quarterly’s to be held at Newmarket’ s Magna Centre on Feb 20 2008.

The idea was broached in Oct 2006 at the first ever (PACC organized) rally against poverty in the region - at The York Regional Newmarket headquarters front lawn on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty from where it received various committments including regional councilor to be at the time – John Taylor - and ultimately MP Belinda Stronach - with the stipulation that it lead to action. The idea was then presented to the provincial ministry via a meeting with Minister of Community and Social Services Madeleine Meilleur and senior staff, which gave a luke - warm reception to the idea but who were receptive to further communications in its regard at that time.

The electing of MPP Frank Klees who gave support to the idea almost immediately, as well Georgina Mayor Rob Grossi, who also pledged support last Oct 17 at the PACC organized International Day for the Eradication of Poverty event at Newmarket’s Fairy Lake Park, and as well former Mayor of Aurora and future MP candidate Tim Jones, were the final touches to make for a grouping with some “teeth”.
In order that the forum is most affective, it has been agreed that representatives from all levels would need to participate and that with Northern York Region having unique issues differing from the south, it would concentrate on this geographical area at this time

States PACC Chair Tom Pearson, “ It took awhile, but we feel we have a group of gutsy community leaders who have shown their leadership by committing to finding ways to specifically reduce poverty- and in the past it has been hard to even get York Region politicians to even admit there was a problem, and in fact some still hide from it as witnessed by some non-responses we received, or rather didn’t. They should all be commended for their actions – but not too much yet, as there is work to be done!”

The first closed door meeting will be used to formalize the set-up and procedures the forum will take and will eventually receive information from everything from the private sector, agencies, individuals, education boards, and organizations - to possibly hearing from other forums such as campaign 2000 which has the added bonus of having economists information specific to Ontario in relation to poverty. The group may also add to the panel should they so choose, for the duration of the quarterly meets.

“ We have a lot of desperate people - families, children, counting on us to make things happen’ says Mr. Pearson, “ We hear almost daily from families, mostly single moms desperate to avoid things like eviction and which our system relies on homelessness prevention programs that do not provide help to the poorest, as they don’t make enough income to qualify which is ridiculously ironic. But really, we are but a conduit for the politicians who ultimately have to make those changes happen.”

Media release by TP Entertainment & Media

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

The 2007 International Day For The Eradication of Poverty

Friends, Countrymen, Lend Me Your Voices!

World Day To End Extreme Poverty

Wed Oct 17 - 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Fairy Lake Park – Newmarket 404 to Davis W to Main S to Eagle E to park
Parking lot 2 - location S of washrooms - media check-in tent onsite
or 400 to # 9 E to Main S (right) to Eagle

Live Entertainment

“Hurricane Mike” - Anam Ranaich – Liana - You!

www.myspace.com/dulcimerhead1

www.taramaehillyer.com

www.liana.biz

Free Meals & Vouchers! Guest Speakers!

Poverty Advocates, Politicians, Faith Groups

Tell Your Own Poverty Story

Walk-on Poverty Voices Welcome!! Support, Speak or Perform!

On Oct 17 events around the globe combine to set a world record for people standing up against poverty. Join Host Tom Pearson along with a throng of entertainers, and speakers - including Regional Councillor John Taylor as well as Frank Klees the winning Newmarket / Aurora MPP - in his 1st public appearance in office!!

Special thanks to Vince’s Market, The Newmarket Farmers Market, Deli House Catering, York Region Alliance to End Homelessness and M & Y Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre, Portable Toilets, Krasman Centre, .

Entry free - donations accepted/split between PACC and “Make Poverty History” campaign.

Note: Can't make it Oct 17 but still want to have your stand-up count in support of helping set the world record? click here! http://www.makepovertyhistory.ca/e/stand-up/index.html

Link to our world Millenium site listing from France for Oct 17! - http://www.oct17.org/event.php?id_rubrique=133&idsecteurvirtuel=209⟨=fr&annee=2007

Oct 17 Fairly lake World listing at events:
www.makepovertyhistory.ca

For Immediate Release: Oct 10 2007
Event location: Fairy Lake Park (Eagle/ Water Sts) Newmarket Ont Canada
The International Day For The Eradication of Poverty Needs You!

York Region - Stand-up and be counted against poverty in a world record of support

Oct 17 is (recognized by The U.N. as) The International Day For The Eradication of Poverty also known as the World Day To End Extreme Poverty. This day is marked by events held 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, with close to a million children now living in poverty and growing - 44% living in Ontario!

PACC (York Region) hosts a friendly gathering at Newmarket’ s Fairy Lake Park from 4 – 7:30 PM and in addition to guest speakers and performers, offer a stage and microphone to those who would like to speak/sing out against poverty. The event features guest speakers such as those living in poverty, politicians, advocates for the poor, religious leaders, musicians and many others and encourages constructive engagement between attendees. Some time will also be set aside for victims of poverty to speak, and for “Plug N Play” Musicians / Rappers - however themes specific to poverty awareness and performers playing mostly original material will be given 1st priority. Expect a soothing opening ambience, with percussion-like background music overlaid with conversing attendees and followed by (see itinerary) dynamic speakers, thrilling announcements of new programs for kids, and more entertainment still! See Itinerary and Ent-release for further details.

The event is part of the Make Poverty History and United Nation’s Millennium 2000 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 (must be counted at 5 PM) which the event helped set last year - with 23.5 million people standing at once world-wide!!

Free hot meals, refreshments, fresh produce and other vouchers, will be available. Donations on-site will be split between PACC and “Make Poverty History” campaign. www.povertyacc.com for more and email info.

PACC letter Toronto Star in reference to low income dental patient who went blind from not getting treatment below.

http://www.thestar.com/article/208644

Related News Articles
Mar 2008- Round-table on Poverty In Halton article
http://www.landlordconnect.ca/RENTnews/show_full.cfm?id=723


Liberals poverty strategy
http://www.nugget.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=873647&auth=MARIA%20CALABRESE

Shoddy Treatment of the Poor
Nov. 17, 2006. 01:00 AM
by CAROL GOAR, Toronto Star

The first time the McGuinty government raised welfare rates, it inadvertently fumbled. The second time — which takes place at the end of this month — it chose to be insensitive.

Provincial officials claim nothing has changed.

Judge for yourself.

Two and a half years ago, Finance Minister Greg Sorbara announced a 3 per cent increase in social assistance and disability support payments (both are considered welfare). It was the first boost in 11 years.

"Whatever challenges the province faces, we must not forget the challenges faced by the most vulnerable," Sorbara said in his inaugural budget.

He set an implementation date of July 1, 2004. But the Liberals discovered that the computer software put in place by their Tory predecessors was incapable of processing a simple rate increase.

It took an astonishing 11 months to straighten out the glitch.

In the interim, the government improvised. It sent welfare recipients two lump sum payments along with their regular benefits. People on disability support got an extra $240. People on social assistance got $130.

Thanks to these top-ups, the increase was effectively retroactive to July 1.

The delivery was ham-handed to be sure. But at least the government tried to treat the province's poorest citizens fairly.

Last spring, then-finance minister Dwight Duncan announced a second increase in welfare rates. In his March 23 budget, he signalled the government's intention to raise social assistance and disability support payments by 2 per cent. No implementation date was given.

Ontarians who depend on these benefits waited for further details. None came. They asked their caseworkers when they'd see the increase. Local officials said they didn't know. They phoned the Ministry of Community and Social Services and got nowhere.

By midsummer, some turned in frustration to the Star. Using sources not normally available to welfare recipients, the newspaper ascertained that the increase would take effect at the end of November — a full eight months after the minister's announcement.

This still has not been communicated to the 420,000 people directly affected. The first notification they will get is an insert, with this month's cheque, explaining the increase.

What will not be explained is why the Liberals took two-thirds of a year to do what they announced and why they kept welfare recipients in the dark the whole time.

The increase will not be retroactive. There will be no acknowledgment — monetary or otherwise — that the government treated the province's poorest citizens shoddily.

It wouldn't be wildly expensive to show a bit of decency.

If the increase were backdated to July, a severely disabled welfare recipient would get an extra $95.90. An individual on basic social assistance would receive an additional $53.60.

The total cost would be $31.8 million.

To put that in perspective, it is the equivalent of one-third of a day's worth of provincial health spending.

It would require three hours' worth of provincial tax revenues.

Regrettably, this small injustice is likely to slip by unnoticed.

Most taxpayers don't know anyone on welfare and don't have much sympathy for those who depend on the public purse.

Most MPPs aren't inclined to go to bat for people who seldom vote.

Most journalists aren't interested in chronicling the indignities of life on welfare.

Even anti-poverty groups have stopped demanding that Premier Dalton McGuinty reverse the punitive welfare cuts imposed by his predecessor, Mike Harris. They've concluded that it is a lost cause.

In short, it would be easy for the government to deliver this month's long-delayed welfare increase without a word of apology or a dollar of recompense.

But for electors who voted Liberal in hopes of restoring the values on which Ontario was built, it would be nice to see an act of moral leadership from the premier.

For teachers who are trying to integrate character development into their lessons, as McGuinty says they should, it would be nice to point to politicians who voluntarily did the right thing.

For kids who are being taught to stand up for people who can't fight for themselves, it would be nice to see grown-ups practise what they preach.

The Liberals seemed to grasp this when they took office. They knew they couldn't solve all of the problems they inherited, but they tried to move ahead responsibly and compassionately.

Over the course of their mandate, they discovered they could get away with less. Ontario is the poorer for it.

Carol Goar's column appears Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
This prompted PACC to write and following "letter to the Editor the result

Shoddy treatment of the poor

Opinion, Nov. 17. published Toronto Star 2007

Kudos to the article by Carol Goar regarding our most impoverished residents of Ontario. It is becoming rarer and rarer these days to find champions of our most vulnerable, so it is welcome and encouraging to see.

As chairman of Poverty Action for Change Coalition, I can assure you that the snubbing by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty has not gone unnnoticed. For the record, this pittance of a 2 per cent increase (in social assistance payments) along with the last several years back of 3 per cent combined with Mike Harris's 22 per cent cut while he was in office, makes for a grand total of a 17 per cent decrease, while rents, gas, heating, amenities, transportation and food costs have risen in that time. Are voters so greedy and self absorbed that they cannot care enough about their fellow beings to hold these politicians accountable?

I implore everyone to hold politicians of all levels accountable. Don't buy into the "it's not our department argument." Across York Region, and with 50,000 people using food banks to survive, we made changes with many new faces and mayors taking up office, including Aurora, one of Ontario's richest per capita towns, with the new mayor-elect being featured just prior to the elections as being disgusted with the shoddy treatment of our poor and wanting to effect change. Yes, change can happen, people do care, stereotypes can die and the poor do vote. So McGuinty, you'd better not fumble this one. MP Belinda Stronach, you're next.

Tom Pearson, Co-ordinating Chair, Poverty Action For Change Coalition York Region

links and letters to the editor/related media

PACC sets up York Region media group with award winning series on poverty - Below the line-
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/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/