Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA)

The Mustard Seed, a well-known non-profit across Western Canada, is bringing 35-plus years of experience in poverty alleviation to Lethbridge. In the cities where they serve, The Mustard Seed provides basic services, housing, and employment supports to those in need and partners with the community to address the root causes of poverty. In Lethbridge, The Mustard Seed is joining forces with Lethbridge Soup Kitchen in order to grow and expand the good work already taking place in the city. The establishment of a sober shelter and permanent supportive housing are two priority areas for The Mustard Seed Lethbridge. The case for additional shelter space and affordable housing in Lethbridge is strong. Between 2016-2018 Lethbridge experienced a 151% increase in the homeless population, 14% of Lethbridge households are considered low-income and 21% of renters pay more than half their income in shelter costs. More than 400 citizens are on the waitlist for affordable housing. The speaker will elaborate and argue for