Journal staff
Sarnia’s annual “Stand Up Against Poverty Rally” returns to the steps of City Hall on Friday, Oct. 20.
The one-hour rally, beginning at 12 noon, is organized by the local Poverty Reduction Network — comprised of more than 20 agencies and concerned citizens who work to create awareness of the impact of poverty in the community, and who work in the front lines to alleviate the impact of poverty in Sarnia-Lambton.
Residents are invited to gather and hear from community members who are experiencing poverty and the organizations working to end it.
“Rental Housing prices have almost doubled in the past six years leading to many of the most vulnerable losing their housing and staying in shelters or on the streets,” stated a news release from the network.
“Inflation has driven costs – particularly food costs – to record highs leading to a 20% increase in usage at food banks. Those living on assistance, Ontario Disability Support Program or Ontario Works haven’t seen an increase in assistance rates since 2018, leading them to have to live on an 85 cent dollar.
“These conditions are having severe effects on the most vulnerable in our community – seniors on fixed incomes, those living with a disability, those working part-time, minimum wage jobs with no benefits.”
The rally will be held rain or shine.