Aaron Stone, Major of Ladysmith
LADYSMITH – The Town of Ladysmith has received a $25,000 grant from the Union of BC Municipalities to help fund the creation of a Poverty Reduction Plan that will deliver actionable steps for our community and make a difference in the lives of those needing it the most.
“The worry of being able to put a fulsome meal on the table, or pay rent on time is a reality for far too many in Ladysmith who are doing everything they can just to get by,” said Mayor Aaron Stone.
“This important investment by the provincial government will make an immediate and lasting impact as the Town partners with Stz’uminus First Nation and our local organizations to create an achievable strategy to help lift people out of the depths of poverty.”
The Town will work with Social Planning Cowichan to create the Poverty Reduction Plan, with the goal of supporting our residents’ specific needs around emergency response, support services, housing and food security.
A significant part of developing the made-in-Ladysmith strategy will be engaging with organizations and residents, including our Indigenous population, and providing opportunities for education and outreach initiatives that reduce stigma and discrimination around poverty.
Once complete, the Poverty Reduction Plan and a set of recommendations will be presented to Ladysmith Council.
A key priority of Council’s 2020-2023 Strategic Plan is developing comprehensive affordability strategies that reflect the needs within our community.
The Town is among 54 local governments across the province receiving provincial funding through the Poverty Reduction Planning and Action Program.