Initiatives

What has this group done so far?

• The Brant/Brantford Roundtable participated in the Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition's (ISARC) 2010 Social Audit. Throughout March and April 2010, we held focus groups with a diverse group of individuals who have experience with Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program. This information was compiled in an Ontario wide report entitled "Persistent Poverty: Voices From the Margins" that was released in January 2011.

• Accumulated statistics used by many agencies and collaterals.

• Represented the concerns of the Brant/Brantford area at “Vibrant Communities” conferences as affiliate members of that organization.

• Identified the need for multi sector community collaboration as a major step towards addressing poverty issues in our community.

• Organized the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty Event in 2008 with over 300 attendees and front-page media coverage.

• Advocated on issues of poverty to the Ontario Cabinet Committee on Poverty Reduction.

• Has held successful community forums on topics such as Poverty Reduction and Temp Work.

• Has begun work on a “Prosperity Accreditation” program for local businesses that work to responsibly reduce poverty and increase the prosperity of the community.

• Created partnerships and fundraised with many local organizations, business and politicians to develop strategies to eliminate poverty within the community.

• Opened an office to help aid in this work.