Blog

For Black History Month, the Broadbent Institute launched a policy series highlighting bold policy solutions in order to tackle anti-Black racism, focusing on the need for intergovernmental action. Melana Roberts, a municipal and federal food policy advisor, public speaker and community advocate based in Toronto posits that it is about more than addressing hunger, it's about combating anti-Black racism and intergenerational poverty through a multi-pronged intergovernmental approach, grounded in the right to food.

 

“What if Canada Revenue Agency decides to freeze my bank account and seize all my assets because I haven’t filed my taxes for so long?” Roger nervously asked the Financial Empowerment and Problem Solving (FEPS) worker at Agincourt Community Service Association (ACSA) during his initial call seeking help with his back taxes. Staff could see Roger was extremely nervous about his situation and knew it would only be possible to help him if they took the time to listen and to understand his story and concerns.

Carla Macias, an Ecuadorian who came to Canada in 2007, shares her journey of integrating into a new country, outlining the ups and downs of facing a world where not only learning a new language is key to success but financial literacy proves equally important. Carla articulates just how instrumental the Jane/Finch Centre was to helping her embark on a path to ensure financial success for herself and her family.

We are pleased to share Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security's latest blog: "Prosper Canada helps Canadians overcome financial barriers to food security", highlighting our partnership. Together, we will be evaluating the extent to which access to benefit services for Canadians living on low incomes leads to reduced food insecurity.