Times Chronicle Staff
The Town of Oliver has taken the reins of social development by applying for a poverty reduction grant from the Union of BC Municipalities.
Council recently approved a staff recommendation to apply for $25,000 to support some of the town’s priorities around affordable housing and other social issues.
Chief Administrative Officer Ed Chow said the grant will give the town an opportunity to complete a needs assessment and develop targeted actions, not only on housing but also accessibility to address new provincial standards.
Chow added the town can also focus on access to healthcare, employment, families and children, financial security, income supports, mental health and addictions, food security, and education/training.
Chow said this grant can help the town assess what is going on in the community as far as social needs are concerned. He noted that staff can conduct local research by engaging individuals with real living experience.
“Research will focus on looking at best and promising practices from other communities and local governments,” Chow said.
Councillor Aimee Grice commented that she is very excited to see the town take these steps.
“This is a priority that I basically wear across my forehead. I’m happy to see this come forward. We really need to take the lead on social development in the community.”
