Feb. 23, 2024 (Vancouver, BC) — In reviewing the Province of British Columbia’s 2024 budget released Thursday, YMCA BC is encouraged to see the government’s continued commitment to affordability measures and addressing the housing crisis. The YMCA sees firsthand the challenges that individuals and families face to make ends meet, as well as the resulting impacts upon their health and well-being.
With the anticipated growth of BC’s population, the construction of housing must be complemented by social infrastructure. While this budget contains significant capital spending for schools, hospitals, and transportation, investment in community social infrastructure is insufficient for communities to thrive. Examples include child care, employment and training programs, supports for newcomers to Canada, and programs focused on physical and mental wellness. Perhaps most importantly, people living in British Columbia also need safe community spaces that provide support and a feeling of belonging.
“In order for children, individuals and families to thrive, access to support services, assistance and programs are crucial,” said YMCA BC President & CEO Heidi Worthington. “YMCA BC is proud to offer many of these key services, such as child care, mental health, employment and newcomer services, many in safe and welcoming community spaces. There are significant opportunities to increase the number of meaningful partnerships with all levels of government that would enhance or expand supports to benefit even more British Columbians across all regions of the province.”
The YMCA was hopeful that the budget announcement would include a renewed commitment to early learning and child care funding. There are unique needs for school-age child care and a wage grid to support workforce recruitment and retention in this sector. The YMCA would like to see clear direction from the government to support effective partnerships between school districts and non-profit providers in the delivery of high-quality child care on school grounds. The Y believes that the government remains committed to early learning and child care, and we will continue our collaborative efforts to support a high quality and accessible child care system.
Investments in health care and mental-health treatment remain a priority in this budget. However, there is a missed opportunity to support and expand access to innovative programs that alleviate strain upon our health care system. From early-intervention, low-barrier mental wellness programs for youth, to fall prevention and chronic disease management programs for seniors, the potential exists for community organizations like YMCA BC to scale up our impact in health equity and health promotion.
“We endeavour to provide the assistance and tools people need to take charge of their personal wellness, and that of their families,” said Worthington. “With YMCA BC’s expertise in this area, we are well positioned to champion further programming that supports the health journeys of people across our province with government investment, particularly those with increased barriers to health and wellness.”
YMCA BC will continue to work with the provincial government to highlight issues of importance in our communities and identify ways to make British Columbia healthy, equitable, affordable, and a place where everyone feels a sense of safety and belonging.
