RNAO and Working for Change Host Community-Led Poverty Consultation

TORONTO, Sept. 21, 2013 /CNW/ - Ontario's top professional nursing association and anti- poverty advocates join forces this coming Tuesday (September 24), in a public consultation to push for more concrete action on the province's poverty reduction strategy.

RNAO and Working for Change are hosting an event called Investing in a poverty-free Ontario:  A community-led consultation on behalf of numerous community partners.

The meeting will feature people who experience living in poverty first hand and focus on the key areas that need to be addressed such as social assistance rates, the minimum wage, training and employment, housing, and child care. Representatives from all three political parties will also be in attendance.

One of the questions nurses and anti-poverty advocates will explore is what would make a real difference in the lives of people who currently live in poverty? And what needs to happen over the next five years?

"We know the government has taken steps to address poverty. However, more comprehensive, stronger and urgent steps are essential if we want to lift people out of poverty in any significant way," says Doris Grinspun, chief executive officer of RNAO. "We know Ontario can do better for those who are vulnerable, and this is why we want politicians to hear directly from people who live in poverty. That's why this consultation is so important."

"Our community partners will share their experiences and their stories will give voice to the policies that ought to be put in place. This reality-check is what will improve their lives and that of thousands of others, who like them, struggle everyday with the devastating consequences of poverty," says Mike Creek, director of Strategic Initiatives at Working for Change.

The event takes place on Tuesday, September 24 from 7 - 9:00 p.m. at Toronto's Metro Hall (55 John Street, Toronto, ON) in room 308.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.

Working for Change is an organization that highlights the importance of work in the lives of those who have been marginalized by poverty and mental health issues.

For more information about RNAO, please visit our website at www.RNAO.ca

SOURCE: Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

To arrange an interview, please contact:
Marion Zych, Director of Communications, RNAO
Cell: 647-406-5605 / Phone: [phone] [e-mail]