Poverty continues to be a significant problem within Canada. To address this issue several provinces and municipalities, including Ottawa, have developed poverty reduction strategies. As poverty is most visible at the local level, municipalities must play a role in reduction. However, they cannot succeed alone. The participation of the federal government is crucial in order to set national standards, offer support and direct resources. Action, however, has remained firmly in the domain of municipalities and provinces. When will the federal government step up and take strong action to eliminate poverty in Canada?

Canadians are just beginning to prepare themselves for the season of Christmas. The important feast has a deeper meaning than an overindulgence of food and frenzied consumerism. For Christians it is the moment when God took human form and renewed the hope of salvation for the world.