There have been a number of reports published in Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan about the costs of poverty. We can determine the net impact on the GDP from maintaining a persistent level of poverty in Canada. But beyond the net costs, there are the moral and ethical costs that happens when high levels of inequality happen in our communities.
The gathering also learned that there is growing momentum in Canada to do something about this issue. There are 9 provinces and 3 territories with emergent or existing poverty strategies including Saskatchewan. Over 100 cities in Canada have formed place-based multi-sector roundtables to develop local solutions. Governments, business leaders, community benefit organizations and citizens are collaborating on innovative solutions to deal with the complex nature of poverty and to move the needle on this issue.
Challenges like poverty need more than single sector solutions. They need the engagement and levers that leaders in all sectors can bring. Business is an important part of the solution to poverty. In Vibrant Communities, business leadership has been pivotal in creating direct benefits for citizens. Those gathered in Saskatoon are ready to take up this challenge. Are you?