by Michael Jiggins, Executive Assistant to Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark, written October 6, 2013

( BROCKVILLE ) – Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark is holding a forum this month to give area residents an opportunity to have their voices heard as part of the provincial government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy.

Clark has teamed up with the United Way of Leeds and Grenville, the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Leeds , Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, who will facilitate the discussion.

“I was disappointed the government, as part of its provincewide consultations, did not select Leeds-Grenville for a meeting,” said Clark . “It’s essential that voices from rural and small urban areas of the province like our riding are heard in this process.”

Clark said he’s thrilled to be working with the United Way, United Counties and the local Health Unit and is looking forward to hearing not only from agencies on the frontlines helping those in need, but people whose lives have been touched by poverty.

“I’m expecting an excellent discussion and to hear some great insight about how we can create a meaningful poverty reduction plan to make a real difference for families here in Leeds-Grenville,” said Clark .

All input gathered at the forum will be presented by Clark to the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and Ministry of Community and Social Services, who are leading the five-year review of the government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy launched in 2008.

The forum will be held on Wednesday, October 16 at the Brockville Public Library. Registration is at 9 a.m. and the meeting will take place from 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Although the session is open to everyone, for planning purposes organizers are asking that you confirm your attendance by emailing info@steveclarkmpp.com or by calling Clark’s constituency office at 613-342-9522 or toll-free at 1-800-267-4408.