BC: Poverty reduction strategy sets a solid foundation

The Voice of Canada News:

TogetherBC: British Columbia’s Poverty Reduction Strategy 2019 Annual Report was tabled by the legislature on Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020, and is available to the public.

TogetherBC is the Province’s first poverty reduction strategy. It is a cross-government approach to reducing the overall poverty rate by 25% and the child poverty rate by 50% by 2024.

The 2019 annual report has been reviewed by the Minister’s Poverty Reduction Advisory Committee. The report includes the committee’s commentary, describes actions taken and contains a comprehensive listing of all government programs implemented during the 2019 calendar year that contribute to poverty reduction.

Key actions include increasing the minimum wage, increasing income and disability assistance rates, and removing policies in order to make it easier for people to access assistance, supports and services.

The 2019 report outlines a strong foundation for helping people break the cycle of poverty and access better opportunities and better services. While the report shows positive signs during 2019, it does not reflect the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which will be addressed in future reports.