
Celebrating Partnership and Impact: 2024 Poverty Reduction Strategy Report Highlights
United Way BC commemorates a significant milestone with the release of the 2024 Poverty Reduction Strategy Report from the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Sheila Malcolmson. This report builds on the accomplishments of the previous strategy, which was instrumental in supporting many vulnerable people in communities across the province.
The Ministry’s ongoing commitment has been evident through effective implementation, and now, with this next 10-year strategy, specific targets are set to further reduce both child and overall poverty. United Way BC is proud to have been a partner in the past strategy and we’re excited to contribute to the new framework that aims to tackle these issues with a renewed focus.
The report also shines a spotlight on key initiatives that United Way BC champions, such as the Regional Community Food Hub, Better at Home, the Period Promise Project, and the Racist Incident Helpline.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction for their valued partnership, inclusion during the report consultation process, and strategic investments in these vital areas. This collaboration is instrumental in addressing nuanced societal gaps and supporting our vision of fostering healthy, caring, and inclusive communities together.
Areas of Impact:
Regional Community Food Hubs
Supporting British Columbians’ health and wellness through food security

United Way BC Regional Community Food Hubs are an innovative, local response to food security challenges, and we are grateful to the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction for the ongoing investment and strong partnership supporting this initiative. These Food Hubs serve as essential pillars in strengthening local agriculture, reducing food waste, and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for all.
Snapshot of Impact:
- Growing our network by adding new Food Hubs in Northern B.C and Southern Vancouver Island, with the total number increasing from 23 in 2023 to 40 by 2028.
- Providing comprehensive support services such as mental health, employment services, and childcare.
- Through initiatives like the Critical Food Infrastructure Grant, we support systems improvements like cold food storage and kitchen facilities, strengthening B.C.’s food access system and ensuring a coordinated provincial approach to food security.
Better At Home Program
Supporting older adults to stay in their homes, remaining active, connected, and engaged

The Better at Home program empowers seniors to live independently and safely in their homes, strengthening social inclusion and well-being.
Better at Home continues to help seniors with non-medical, day-to-day tasks so they can live independently. Friendly visits and coordinated gatherings also keep participants socially engaged and connected. The result is an overall increase in quality of life.
Snapshot at Impact:
- Better at Home currently operates 93 programs in 260 communities across B.C., including First Nations communities. Increased funding will further enhance services, focusing on social connection through new offerings such as peer support, expanded group activities, and flexible transportation options.
- Services include grocery shopping, housekeeping, minor home repairs, transportation, and friendly visiting; all crucial for enabling seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Period Promise Pilot Project
Lack of access to menstrual products is a widespread issue

The Period Promise pilot project exemplifies a commitment to menstrual equity and ensuring access to essential menstrual products, aligning perfectly with United Way BC’s mission to promote dignity, equity, and health for all.
This initiative explores innovative ways to distribute free menstrual supplies across communities throughout the province, addressing a fundamental aspect of health equity.
Over 3,000,000 menstrual products have been distributed to date!
Newly Launched Racist Incident Hotline
Support is Here
The launch of a trauma-informed, multilingual racist incident helpline marks a significant step in supporting victims and witnesses of hate incidents, fostering inclusive and safe communities for all.
The helpline provides free and confidential access to information and safe supports from anywhere in BC, in over 240 languages. United Way BC is also working with community-based organizations, Indigenous-led organizations, and land-based Nations throughout the province that specialize in supporting those affected by racist incidents in our support of B.C.’s anti-racism initiatives.
Moving Forward Together
United Way BC is inspired by working across government to eliminate systemic issues and promote a whole-of-government approach to reduce poverty. We celebrate the focus on Indigenous priorities and are committed to supporting these critical areas in our work. Together with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and our community partners, we look forward to continuing our work towards more equitable, inclusive, and resilient communities.