Whereas the provincial government is encouraging local governments to collaborate with the community through the Community Poverty Reduction Strategy; And whereas UBCM provides administration of various grants through the Local Government Program Services: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request that the Province of British Columbia, in partnership with UBCM, initiate a grant program to fund local poverty reduction initiatives.
Ministry of Children Family Development No government wants to see any child or family living in poverty. Were committed to working with our partners across government and in communities to find innovative ways to use existing supports and make life easier for low-income British Columbians. Government is committed to maintaining a balanced budget and is not in a position to offer financial assistance for local poverty reduction efforts under the current fiscal climate. The Province supports communities and low-income individuals and families by providing the wrap-around supports they need at the provincial level. Through the Community Poverty Reduction Strategies Initiative, government will continue to offer support to participating communities in the form of a local family consultant. For new communities wanting help with creating a local poverty strategy, the Ministry of Children and Family Development will provide support through a local staff liaison that will work with the communitys planning committee. While the Province continues to support communities with their local poverty reduction efforts, all partners must combine their strengths and available supports and resources in order to best meet the needs of the individuals and families in their B.C. communities. Government remains committed to continuing to work with communities and local partners throughout B.C. to find innovative ways to address and reduce poverty at both provincial and local levels.