New Arthur Circles chapter takes aim at rural poverty
A chapter of Circles Guelph Wellington is set to be established here in a bid to assist those living in poverty.
Circles coach Mary Crome made a presentation to Wellington North council on March 10 outlining the intent of the chapter, which will operate in conjunction with the Wellington County Learning Centre.
Crome said the intent of the group is to provide “a new way out of poverty, by matching low-income people with middle-or upper-income allies.”
“The Circles Guelph Wellington initiative is changing how our community thinks and acts about poverty,” she said. “In addition to the personal stress it causes, we know that poverty has an impact on our health, social and policing services. If we lower the number of families living in poverty in our community we will improve lives, and spend less on these public services.”
Circles is a high-impact, 18-month voluntary program designed to provide emotional and practical support, assist with complex issues, build the social capital of people living in low income situations, show the community the very real barriers holding back people in poverty and support positive changes in their lives.
Groups have circle leaders of low income individuals or families interested in becoming self sufficient. The leaders are teamed up with allies consisting of two or three volunteers who assist them in improving their lives. The coach assists both leaders and allies.
Crome said community caring will be the strength in fighting rural poverty and the decision to locate a chapter in Arthur is because, according to her, Wellington North “is an area highest in low income households.”
“It makes sense for us to end poverty. As we bring more people out of poverty it helps us sell more,” she added.
According to her, a Circles chapter in Sarnia consisting of 51 leaders found a 31 per cent increase in earnings and 63% increase in education resulting from the program.
“We have the power of a community to break the power of poverty,” Crome said.
For more information go to www.circlesgw.ca.
