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The Meaning Of Poverty In Canada

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In the 21st century, one might think the world has progressed and issues like poverty are no longer something we have to think about. False. Poverty is seen all around us, and not just in third world countries but also in first world countries, including our country – Canada. Statistics show that the rate of poverty in Canada is among the highest of the OECD countries – defined as the world’s wealthiest industrialized countries. Several individuals don’t quite know the real meaning of poverty. So, what is it? A study was conducted by a student in Toronto where she went out and asked Canadians the question we barely think twice about – what is poverty? Several responses included the typical “homelessness, no food, no house, no clothes etc”. Investopedia defines poverty as a “state or condition in which a person or community lacks the financial resources and essentials to enjoy a minimum standard of life and well-being that’s considered acceptable in society” (Investopedia, 2017). Poverty in Canada has caused housing instability and homelessness to result in unsanitary environments, the built environment to create limited access to nutritious and healthy foods, and the mental and physical health of individuals in these conditions to be affected.

Imagine not having a home, a place to sleep comfortably, or a place where you feel safe. Approximately nine percent of Canadians are living in poverty. As Investopedia defined “poverty”, it does not particularly mean they are all

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