People living in poverty must be central to federal response amidst a tariff war
March 21, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
People living in poverty must be central to federal response amidst a tariff war
Winnipeg, Manitoba – Anti-poverty advocates convene in Winnipeg, where some of the highest rates of poverty in Canada are found, amid tariff wars and an impending federal election, to discuss the effects of the current political climate on low income individuals and families.
“We don’t know the full effects of the trade war on the economy or on people in our communities. But what we do know is that poverty has been on the rise in Canada since the pandemic. Our current social infrastructure is unable to support those who are already living in poverty,” said Leila Sarangi, National Director of Campaign 2000. “With mass job losses on the horizon, and tariffs compounding the current affordability crisis, we expect more people to fall into poverty, which will increase demand for community programs and resources such as rent supplements, food banks, Employment Insurance, social assistance and mental health counselling supports.”
Campaign 2000, a pan-Canadian coalition of over 120 organizations working to end child and family poverty, found historic increases in poverty from 2020 to 2022, with more than 1.5 million people falling into poverty in those two years alone. 6.5 million people now live in poverty, according to taxfiler data, including 830,000 families with children. Poverty in Canada is disproportionately experienced by groups who are marginalized, and it is concerning that the new federal cabinet, intending to signal a renewed focus on the economy, eliminates dedicated ministers responsible for social development, children and youth, women and gender, disabilities, seniors, diversity and inclusion, all of which are essential to a productive and dynamic economy.
“Today’s convening comes at a pivotal time in the movement to end poverty,” added Sarangi. “The coalition is united in the call to strengthen our communities, particularly in a time of crisis.”
You are invited to join the conversation, hosted by the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg with anti-poverty advocates, policy experts and community organizers who will provide perspectives on the current political climate and how it will impact on low income individuals and families.
WHAT: Fireside Chat (50 mins)
WHO: Hosted by Social Planning Council of Winnipeg and Campaign 2000
- Moderator: Richard Cloutier, Host 680 CJOB
- Michael Redhead Champagne, Helper, Author, Speaker, Host
- Marie Christian, National Advisory Council on Poverty
- Diana Sarosi, Oxfam Canada
WHEN: Friday March 21, 2025, 6:10pm
WHERE: Alt Hotel, 310 Donald St, Winnipeg, 8th Floor Banquet Hall
-30-
Media contact: Leila Sarangi, National Director of Campaign 2000, [email protected], 647-393-109
Campaign 2000 is a coalition of organizations working to end child and family poverty. Please visit www.campaign2000.ca for more information.
Download the press release