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Health Equity

Money & Income

 

… of the Simcoe Muskoka population live in low income*.

Our health is determined by a lot of things, but research shows that money is the most important. That’s because it influences other living conditions, including access to health services, education, safe and affordable housing, and nutritious, affordable food. Having money can also contribute to a sense of community belonging, which is also connected to health. People with less money have higher rates of chronic disease, use the health care system more often, and are more likely to die earlier than those with more money.

* low income is based on the Statistics Canada variable Low Income Measure After-Tax (LIM-AT). The LIM is defined as half the median household income, after taxes. A person whose income is below that level is said to be in low income. The LIM is adjusted for household size.

What can be done?

Individuals can:

  • Learn about what it’s like to live in poverty. Check out the Bridges out of Poverty workshop offered locally.
  • Write to your provincial government representatives asking them to support a basic income and increase social assistance rates to keep up with the cost of living.

Governments can:

  • Transform the social assistance system to ensure all people are able to live free from poverty, with good health, dignity and respect.
  • Provide a basic income. A basic income is a payment to eligible families or individuals that ensures a minimum income level, regardless of employment status.

 

Resources:

Low Income and Health Report

Basic Income Canada Network

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