Ford’s poverty reduction plan falls short as costs rise for Ontarians

WINDSOR — Ontario NDP MPP Lisa Gretzky, Shadow Minister for Children, Community and Social Services, is calling out the Ford government’s failed poverty reduction strategy after it missed key targets and left more people struggling to get by:

“Simply moving somebody into a job doesn’t mean they can afford rent, groceries, or even get to work,” said Gretzky. “If the job doesn’t pay enough and the supports aren’t there, people aren’t escaping poverty, they’re stuck in it.”

“Ford needs to wake up. The reality is that more people are falling behind. Poverty is rising again, and this government still hasn’t addressed the root causes.”

Gretzky said the Ford government’s approach ignores the real pressures Ontarians are facing, including stagnant social assistance rates, rising housing costs, and unstable, low-wage work.

“We need a plan that actually helps people live with dignity,” said Gretzky. “That means affordable housing, stronger supports, and jobs that pay enough to build a life, not just survive.”