The Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force was formed in 2013. Our initial priorities were to develop a common understanding of poverty and a “common agenda” on poverty reduction for Grey Bruce.
We have benefited from several “back bone organizations” who have provided dedicated human and financial resources to lead our 6 Actions Groups and Community Voices. These groups carry out collaborative projects to increase our impact on food security, income and employment security, housing, health equity and transportation.
Community Voices makes up a 7th Advisory/Action Group that examines the causes of poverty from the perspective of people with grounded expertise. Members of Community Voices have graduated from the Getting Ahead program and are advocates for change within their own communities.
The inclusion of diverse voices across sectors, including those of people with “grounded expertise”, is an integral part of reducing and eliminating poverty. People with grounded expertise deeply understand the realities of poverty. Their stories, experiences and knowledge serve as powerful tools in disrupting communities’ current understanding, and offer a clearer perspective that raises awareness, builds compassion, and challenges stigma and stereotypes.