A smart, essential look at the ideas, trends, and news shaping cities and communities, from the Future of Good editorial team.
Non-profit arts organizations are in an especially precarious financial position right now. During a global pandemic and high-profile acts of systemic racism, the sense of community, solidarity, and expression fostered by the arts are more important than ever.
The COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating pre-existing inequities around food access, mental health services, and income support. United Way Centraide Canada’s findings suggest the virus is also impoverishing Canadians who were previously secure. Non-profits and government programming will need to be ready for an increase in demand.
Municipalities create 50 percent of greenhouse gas emissions produced in Canada. They also control much of the country’s economic development, greenspace allocation, and other major areas of opportunity for climate action. Informed and engaged local citizens could mean massive gains toward a brighter climate future.
COVID-19 is aggravating Canada’s affordable housing and homelessness crisis. According to a 2020 survey from the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, 1.6 million Canadians have experienced homelessness. The government is offering critical aid to affordable housing developers, but it may not be accessible to all.
Calls to 211, a now-national helpline connecting Canadians to government and community social services, has increased by 30 percent during the pandemic. The need for clear, accurate, and compassionate information about social support is as pressing as ever — and a national 211 expansion means thousands more Canadians will have this need met.
Poor internet access is a major issue in Canada that receives little attention from the philanthropic sector. The COVID-19 pandemic is showing just how vital it is to a healthy society. Internet infrastructure may require significant government investment, but non-profits can play an important role in ensuring internet access for all.