Editor: Re: Strong economy, not more officials, more of a help in alleviating poverty, Publisher's Perspective, July 10
Yes, federal and provincial governments are responsible to respond to the issues that create poverty, not municipalities.
And yes, a strong economy will help alleviate poverty for many. In the meantime, many people throughout Delta need help.
That's what we at Deltassist do. We are an important part of Delta's social safety net, helping people deal with unexpected challenges that life sometimes throws at us.
Alleviating poverty is not the job of a social planner.
A municipal social planner is not responsible for providing social services in the community. They do not focus exclusively on the vulnerable or lower income segment of the population.
They don't manage food banks or collect toys at Christmas.
The job of a social planner is to look out for the wellbeing of all citizens in the community. They report to council, and are responsible for knowing the people's needs and desires. Their job is to think about the people in the community, not the buildings or roads, which are already well handled by other departments.
A social planner works with local non-profits to find out how government can help them do their work, not to do the work for them. A social planner understands the mood of the community on a number of issues, from development to facilities to knowing what sidewalks should look like so seniors can get around safely. They work on projects that enhance the lives of every person in the community, not just lower income residents.
A social planner is not a luxury. Delta is one of very few communities in Metro Vancouver without one.
We support the call by the Canadian Federation of University Women South Delta for a social planner in Delta. We already live in a wonderful community and a social planner will only make it better for everyone.
Doug Sabourin
Executive Director Deltassist Community
and Family Services
