London tackles child poverty

from London Free Press

A symposium tomorrow will address why the issue is as bad now as it was two decades ago.
By JENNIFER O'BRIEN, SUN MEDIA

Child poverty in London is as bad as it was two decades ago, says the head of an early childhood centre.

And tomorrow, a public symposium will aim to address the dismal issue that affects nearly 800,000 children nationwide.

"This will be a very diverse and inclusive opportunity for people who care about the welfare of children, and families to speak from a personal or philosophical perspective," said Susan Ryans, executive director of Childreach, which is organizing the symposium along with London MP Glen Pearson.

"We hope parents and community members with an interest in family life will show up so we can have a dialogue."

Moderated by Barb McQuarrie, of UWO's centre for research and education on violence against women and children, the symposium's key speaker will be Ken Dryden, Liberal MP for York Centre and chairperson of the party's social justice committee.

As a centre for parents and caregivers with children under six years old, Childreach staff members often see the effects of poverty on children, said Ryans, with the organization since 1990.

"In almost 18 years the issue of child poverty is as bad as it was when I started, despite all efforts and goodwill to give all kids an equal playing field," she said.

"We've had a lot more knowledge about the importance of the early years and we know what helps children be born healthy and grow to the best of their potential, but still . . . "

The event comes after a report released yesterday urged Ottawa to do more for almost 800,000 kids growing up poor.

Campaign 2000, a group devoted to ending child poverty, says almost 12 per cent of Canadian kids live in low-income homes.

Spokesperson Laurel Rothman says governments should increase child benefits to low-income families, hike work tax credits and lift the minimum wage to at least $10 an hour.

The issue in London is a pressing one, Ryans said, as the city continues to welcome new Canadians who have come seeking refuge -- often with few resources.

She said Canada needs a "family policy" to truly address the roots and continuation of child poverty.

"Every child in Canada should be able to have a roof over their head, food on the table (and) the opportunity to be safe and nurtured," she said.

While two Liberal politicians are involved with the symposium, Ryans said, it's intended to be a non-partisan event.

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IF YOU GO

When: Tomorrow, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Where: Brescia University College auditorium.

Cost: Asking for a $5 donation. Parking is free.