Visit www.reducepoverty.ca to learn more about the Coalition 

In 2003, United Way of Calgary and Area completed a major research study called The Way Forward Community Dialogue. The project consistently found Calgarians were concerned about economic issues. Results suggested that although Calgary is a good city for many people to live in, economic barriers prevent others from sharing in the city's high standard of life.

The report also pointed to the need for increased leadership in tackling current and emerging social issues. Many study respondents suggested that United Way was in a unique position to play a pivotal role in this work.

In 2004, United Way of Calgary and Area formed the Sustained Poverty Reduction Initiative with the hope of instigating thoughtful social innovation in government policies, in the provision of social services, in systems reform and within the business community.   Since that time, our name has changed, but not our intention. 

The newly coined Poverty Reduction Coalition works with all orders of government, the business community, social service organizations and community members to address the systemic barriers and policies that prevent low-income individuals and families from moving beyond the cycle of poverty.  We partner and collaborate with others to ensure sustained change.  By breaking the cycles and myths of poverty, we believe all Calgarians will have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Our key focus areas include:

• Affordable Housing
• Community Engagement and Awareness
• Economic Well-Being
• Supports for Women and Children

The Poverty Reduction Coalition is a community collaborative, supported by United Way of Calgary and Area, aimed at reducing poverty in Calgary.  We work together in the belief that poverty can be reduced in Calgary and that we have the human and capital resources to do it. 

Click here to visit the Poverty Reduction Coalition website.