News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty will be observed in New Brunswick and around the world on Saturday, Oct. 17. This year’s theme is Building a sustainable future: Coming together to end poverty and discrimination.

“In addition to those living in financial poverty in New Brunswick, there are those who are suffering from other forms of poverty which are much more devastating in many respects,” said Ed Doherty, minister responsible for the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation. “Homelessness, suffering from hunger, suffering from a mental health issue which forces you in to poverty, not being able to work or go to school, are just a few examples of what too many New Brunswickers and their families have to struggle with on a daily basis.”

The day is intended as an opportunity to acknowledge the effort and struggle of people living in poverty and a chance for them to make their concerns heard. The intention is to highlight the capacity to build on the strength of communities, often starting with small acts performed at the individual level.

“This year’s theme aligns well with Overcoming Poverty Together: The New Brunswick Economic and Social Inclusion Plan,” said Monique Richard, chair of the board of directors of the Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation. “The plan and the corporation were created in a way that allows individuals who have experienced poverty to work in collaboration with representatives from the non-profit, business and government sectors to reduce poverty and help people living in New Brunswick.”

To mark the day, the corporation and its 12 Community Inclusion Networks throughout the province are asking New Brunswickers to join in solidarity with those living in poverty and work together to improve their quality of life. The networks are organizing various events, such as food drives, conversations, food security workshops, and open houses to commemorate the day.

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been observed every year since 1993 when the United Nations General Assembly designated the day to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries.

Overcoming Poverty Together: The New Brunswick Economic and Social Inclusion Plan is a means to bring together government, business, community and individuals to be a part of a social project aimed at meeting the basic needs of New Brunswickers so they can live in dignity, safety, and good health. It operates under the conviction that all New Brunswickers should have the same opportunities in terms of employment, personal development and community involvement.

The Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation is a Crown corporation that co-ordinates and supports the implementation of the Overcoming Poverty Together plan. The corporation’s board of directors is made up of members representing persons who experienced or are living in poverty, non-profit organizations, the business sector and the government.