Accessible Widget

October 16, 2018

It's not easy being green, - why poverty sucks - October 17th, 2018

'It's not easy being green
when you live in poverty'


This October 17th’s International Day to Eradicate Poverty, watch out for ‘Poverty Sucks’ reusable silicone straws. These straws are ways for Hall members to begin the conversation about rates for social assistance. “People with disabilities want to support efforts to reduce waste with plastic straws, but they cannot afford to buy re-usable straws if they need them because, as our straws say, “Poverty Sucks,” says Mary.

It is just is not the easy being green with the no straw movement when you cannot afford to buy a reusable straw.  We want Albertans to know “We should be doing more to end pollution so we can use the money we save to eradicate poverty.” Says Brad.

We bought silicone straws to highlight the fact that people with disabilities sometimes need straws but cannot afford ecologically sound alternatives because they live in poverty.” Says Kathleen.

In fact, it has been six years since 'Assured Income for Severely Handicapped' (AISH) social assistance rates increased to the cost of living in Alberta. Jen wants to let Albertans know “It’s not that easy for people with disabilities to pay for re-usable straws if they live on AISH.”  

Rates are falling further behind each year. (See chart)



We can all do more to try to protect our right to safe, clean water and keep our planet green. To learn more about the plastic-free movement that we are proud to be a part of, check out Plastic Free YYC.  

Hall members will be sharing these straws at a location near you to let our government know poverty sucks in Alberta. Help us and help the environment by washing this straw and using it as often as you can.