Participants at the workshop reflected their concerns in a similar manner and supported the notion that these issues were important in their communities as well. Unfortunately time did not allow for a longer discussion on what could be done to alleviate these problems. Participants did offer their sincere interest in furthering these discussions and collaborating on solutions.

Questions

Question # 1
What do you perceive is the community understanding of Child and Family Poverty issues and how is the community engaged in addressing the issue?

Common Responses

  • Many people felt that public does not understand the realities and issues around Child and Family Poverty, i.e. housing, low income, unhealthy living, negative perception of people on welfare and their rights
  • There are many strong “givers” - seeing the effects but not the cause
  • Many blame people who live in poverty for creating their own problems
  • Most are unaware that there is a poverty issue in their own community
  • Government is responsible for dealing with issues in our community
  • People who live in poverty do not reach out. Independence and pride prevent them for asking for help

Question #2
Who is responsible for addressing issues of child and family poverty in your community?

Common Responses

  • Government, through tax dollars
  • Service groups
  • Faith Community
  • Community Agencies/organizations
  • Business Community
  • Schools
  • “Elders” in the community. However, they are not accustomed to reaching out to community groups · Major employers/large plants need to look at conditions to support the working poor (childcare, transportation, wages)

Question #3
What can you do to address the issues in your community?

Common Responses

  • Educate the poor. i.e. more awareness of their rights, eliminating their fear of losing support
  • The capacity to take action is not often there amongst the poor themselves; therefore, there is a need for partnership between the poor and communities and government
  • Involving the poor – looking at language barriers
  • Changing the perceptions/creating an environment of respect
  • Sharing information/networking
  • Establish Volunteer Centre
  • The continued support of government departments & community organizations
  • Creating an advocacy network
  • Focus on youth – how to keep them in the communities and get them involved in addressing the issues
  • Looking at Poverty from a more positive approach. i.e. using an asset-based model.


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