Campaign 2000 responds to First-ever Annual Report by Canada’s Public Health Commissioner

Campaign 2000 (21 Jul 08) – Addressing Child Poverty is a Public Health Priority for Canada

Toronto – Campaign 2000, the national anti -poverty coalition, praised the first annual report of Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer which calls for a reduction in child poverty as one of three priorities to improve public health in Canada.Dr. David Butler-Jones’ Report on the State of Public Health in Canada (2008) notes that for every $1 invested in children during the early years, government saves $3-$9 in future spending on health, criminal justice, and social assistance.

“Campaign 2000 is very pleased that in his first annual report Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer has added his voice to the call for action to reduce child poverty, with social investments and income policies so all families have the resources needed for healthy child development,” said Campaign 2000 spokesperson Jacquie Maund.

“As we move closer to a possible federal election this fall Campaign 2000 partners across the country will be pressing all federal parties to outline their plans for significant reductions in levels of child poverty in Canada.”

The report, tabled in Parliament on June 18th, states that the gap between those with the highest and lowest incomes in Canada continues to grow, and poverty rates for some children, Aboriginal Peoples, recent immigrants and persons with disabilities are significantly higher than for the general population. Canada’s child poverty rate is higher than in many similar developed countries.

Low income is a social determinant of health. People with the lowest incomes, inadequate housing and poor working conditions are more likely to develop poor physical and mental health outcomes.

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Contacts:

Jacquie Maund, Ontario Coordinator, Campaign 2000: 416-595-9230 ext 241.
www.campaign2000.ca
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Contact: Jacquie Maund – – tel: 416-595-9230, x241