Nearly One in Seven Canadian Children Lives in Poverty

More than 20 years ago the House of Commons pledged to end child poverty in Canada by the year 2000. But the promised poverty elimination or plans never materialized.

A 2012 Report Card on Child and Family Poverty in Canada says children can’t afford to wait anymore. Public policies have to intervene to support their healthy growth and development now.

The report goes on to say that national partners are recommending a federal action plan to be secured in legislation that includes the creation of national housing and child-care strategies, restored and expanded eligibility for employment insurance, and an increase in the minimum wage.

Today, there are poverty reduction strategies in seven of the 10 provinces and even in some municipalities. Isn’t it time for the federal government to do its part?