Huron Perth Board of Health Calls for Basic Income

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Huron Perth Public Health Board of Health is joining experts and community groups across Canada calling for a Basic Income.
Research shows that low income has a long-term, negative impact on health. The COVID 19 pandemic has also shown that even a small loss of income has a big impact on people’s ability to meet basic needs. Basic income is payment made directly to people with low income, whether or not they work for pay. It would help people meet their needs, participate in society and live with dignity.
Chair of the HPPH Board of Health, Kathy Vassilakos, says Basic Income isn’t a new idea. “Studies from around the world, including in Canada, show that providing people with a basic income has a positive impact on important social goals like reducing poverty, boosting local economies, increasing community participation and improving health.”
In a letter sent to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June 2020, HPPH Board of Health noted that the federal government already gives money to some people living with low income. People with children receive the Child Tax Benefit (CTB). Seniors receive Old Age Security (OAS) and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). Basic Income would cover working age adults living with low incomes.
Perth Huron United Way has also endorsed Basic Income. According to its Living Wage report, half the households in Huron and Perth Counties earn less than the Living Wage of $17.55 an hour. Basic Income would also help people in lower paying, seasonal, part-time or contract work.
Poverty to Prosperity (P2P), Huron’s anti-poverty coalition, has been a strong advocate for Basic Income. P2P co-chair Pam Hanington says that Basic Income would: “Significantly reduce poverty in Huron and Perth, especially for people currently relying on inadequate provincial income assistance programs.”
The rollout of the Canadian Emergency Relief Benefit (CERB) has shown that the government can deliver Basic Income. Costing models show that it is affordable. Basic Income is supported by economists, health professionals, and businesses. Fifty members of the Canadian Senate have called for the CERB to transition to a permanent Basic Income. Vassilakos says, “Basic income is an important way we can improve people’s health and social conditions, and support our local economy.”