Poverty Awareness in York Region

Oct 17, PACC - York Region – hosted their second Stand-up and be counted against poverty event in as many years helping set a world record of support with 38.8 million people from over 100 countries - up significantly from last years 23.5 million


Highlights of the event included political guest speakers and attendees such as new area MPP Frank Klees, Regional Councilor John Taylor, Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, Georgina Mayor Rob Grossi, and Former Aurora Mayor Tim Jones. Various federal candidates for local ridings and Councilors were also present in numbers.

The event drew 215 people who signed pledges and were officially counted towards the Guinness Book world record for people standing at once against poverty - with scores more pledging in through the PACC website. Other highlights included inspiring performances by the feature entertainment – Anam Ranaim (with David Rankine and Tara Mae Hillyer), Ava, and “Hurricane” Mike Thompson. Poems and testimonials were particularly touching including Donna, a victim of the housing and dental-health care systems and a breast cancer survivor, who struggles to survive.

Organizers, (PACC) Poverty Action for Change Coalition, also encouraged those attending - particularly the various levels of governments represented - along with church, social workers, & the marginalized to participate in a “square-table forum to find solutions to poverty. The idea started at last years event, has attracted some interest from Provincial Minister Madeleine Meilleur and commitment from MP Belinda Stronach previously; however she has since announced intentions to leave politics and therefore PACC was looking to add more allies to the idea.

Said Mr. Pearson, “ This was a great, cooperative event. The turnout from the various political levels was particularly encouraging, and not just those who spoke. Scores of councilors and others from throughout the region attended and all went out of their way to express an interest to participate in further action with PACC, to find ways to reduce poverty. It was an encouraging day”.

Media release by TP Entertainment & Media


For Immediate Release: Oct 19 2007

Event location: Fairy Lake Park (Eagle/ Water Sts) Newmarket Ont Canada

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