Minister’s Message

Just one year ago, Ontario’s Poverty Reduction Strategy was introduced when our government re-committed to a pathway that will Break the Cycle of poverty in Ontario. It’s a plan that sets real targets for reducing poverty so that everyone — especially children — has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

The development of this plan was made possible because of the feedback received and the contribution made by Ontarians dedicated to the fight against poverty. Today, I feel very privileged to carry forward the vision set out by my colleague, the Honourable Deb Matthews, as we continue to tackle the very real issue of poverty in communities across Ontario.

Already, significant changes have put more money in the hands of those who most urgently need our help – to further their education, to find jobs, to nurture their children and families in safe and affordable housing, and to contribute to our communities and our economic future. Innovative programs and services are being introduced to ensure that our children get the best possible start in life, that parents have the tools they need to become actively engaged in their children’s education, and that all children and youth are supported in achieving their highest possible potential, in school and in life.

What is also clear is that there are countless individuals and organizations across Ontario whose hard work and commitment make an important difference every day. They recognize, as we do, that poverty reduction involves all of us. It requires the committed partnership of federal, provincial, regional and municipal governments. It requires our communities and community-based organizations to come together with renewed focus on this important issue. And it requires individual Ontarians to play a role, whether large or small.

During this time of economic challenge, the need for committed partnership and cooperation is even greater. Although we have seen significant labour market restructuring in the past year, and know that continued economic challenges lie ahead in 2010, we can and will make a difference together, when everyone plays a role.

We can take pride in what has been accomplished during this first year of the Poverty Reduction Strategy, and I am confident that we are well on our way to realizing the goal of lifting 90,000 children out of poverty within five years. Much hard work lies before us, and these are early steps, but they are promising steps.

I want to congratulate Premier McGuinty and Minister Matthews for championing poverty reduction in Ontario, and I extend my thanks to all who have been a part of a vision that will improve opportunity for all. In our second year, I look forward to an exciting journey of change, and of promise for future generations.

The Honourable Laurel Broten
Minister of Children and Youth Services