January 11, 2010 2:30 PM
Ontario has selected a group of highly experienced and committed community leaders to help shape a review of the social assistance system and suggest ways to better support vulnerable Ontarians transition to greater independence.
The Social Assistance Review Advisory Council, chaired by Gail Nyberg, Executive Director of the Daily Bread Food Bank, will advise the Minister of Community and Social Services on possible short-term changes to social assistance rules and provide the government with a recommended scope for a review of Ontario's social assistance system.
Council members include partners in poverty reduction efforts and leaders from community organizations. Members of the public are invited to send the Council input online.
"Based on their vast and varied experience about how to best support vulnerable Ontarians, I know this Council will provide me with excellent advice on how we should move forward."
– Madeleine Meilleur
Minister of Community and Social Services
"I am pleased that we continue to move forward on the implementation of Ontario's Poverty Reduction Strategy. The establishment of the Social Assistance Review Advisory Council is yet another concrete example of government's commitment to improving the lives of low-income Ontarians."
– Laurel Broten
Minister of Children and Youth Services
"Reshaping Ontario's income security programs is a huge challenge, but one we are excited to tackle. We have an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of all low-income Ontarians."
– Gail Nyberg
Chair, Social Assistance Review Advisory Council and Executive Director, Daily Bread Food Bank.