OUR STORY

The Elgin St. Thomas Coalition to End Poverty was established in 2017 following community conversations about how to address the root causes of poverty in Elgin County and the City of St. Thomas.

The Coalition grew from the work of Bridges Out of Poverty St. Thomas Elgin, a group of community leaders and volunteers committed to reducing poverty by bringing together the strengths, experiences, and resources of our community.

In 2015, Bridges Out of Poverty St. Thomas Elgin began exploring the need for a coordinated community approach to poverty reduction. Through discussions with local organizations, community members, and partners, the Elgin St. Thomas Coalition to End Poverty was formed.

Today, the Coalition brings together community members, organizations, businesses, people with lived and living experience, service providers, and government representatives to work collaboratively to eliminate poverty in Elgin St. Thomas through sustainable solutions.

Our work is guided by a shared mission, vision, core functions, and values.

Our Mission

Work collaboratively to eliminate poverty in Elgin St. Thomas through sustainable solutions.

Our Vision

Elgin St. Thomas is a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive because no one lives in poverty.

Our Core Functions

Advocacy

Supporting policies, systems, and solutions that address poverty and reduce barriers.

Communication

Sharing information, fostering dialogue, and raising awareness of poverty-related issues and solutions.

Education

Building understanding of poverty, its impacts, and opportunities for positive change.

Equity and Inclusion

Creating opportunities for diverse voices to be heard through intentional actions to be representative of the wider community and reduce barriers to participation.

Collaboration

Working together as individuals, organizations, and communities to foster positive change.

Innovation

Thinking outside of the box by encouraging new ideas and innovative solutions, and adapting approaches where change is needed.

Compassion

Being trusting, open to different perspectives, communicating clearly, and encouraging active listening.

Accountability

Following our action plan and reporting on progress and areas for improvement. Committing to results and being financially accountable to members.

Community Partnerships

The Coalition is a member of Communities Ending Poverty, a national network that supports local poverty reduction efforts across Canada.

Governance

The Coalition is guided by a Steering Committee that provides leadership and oversight for its strategic priorities and activities.

Learn more about our structure, membership, and decision-making processes in our Terms of Reference.