Columbia Basin Trust envisions a region where all Basin residents thrive – having their basic needs met, experiencing a sense of belonging and getting support when they need it. We’ve built this into our Social Strategic Plan, with an objective to “undertake steps to understand and reduce poverty across the Basin”. This is why we’re helping communities address this complex challenge and supporting their efforts to prevent and reduce poverty over the long term.
Today, the Trust announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for community-based poverty reduction projects. The RFP will make $500,000 available for up to four innovative projects that take action to reduce poverty in Basin communities, including rural areas. Successful proponents will develop and implement their proposed projects and keep track of lessons learned so they can be shared. For details, visit the BC Bid website.
Innovative work is already underway by the Columbia Basin Poverty Reduction Working Group. This group brings together Basin communities focused on poverty reduction and encourages collaboration by sharing knowledge and experience, enabling these community leaders to be better positioned to have tangible impact.
The working group, in collaboration with the Columbia Basin Rural Development Institute, has been recognized regionally and nationally. The group recently held a webinar for Vibrant Communities Canada highlighting their approach to poverty reduction in rural and remote communities, so other regions across the country can learn from their approach. View the webinar and presentation slides here.
This RFP is just one of the ways the Trust is strengthening social well-being in the Basin. For example, we are also addressing affordable housing, workforce development, literacy, economic development and early childhood development. Learn more about our social programs and initiatives at ourtrust.org/social.
The Trust is also committed to addressing affordable housing, literacy, workforce development, economic development and early childhood development. Learn more about all our social programs and initiatives at ourtrust.org/social.
