10/19/2026
October 17th is the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty! In 2024, Canada's poverty rate was 11%, meaning that more than every one in ten Canadians did not have enough to get by to live a full, dignified life. For Indigenous people and visible minorities, poverty rates were 17.9% and 15.5% respectively., demonstrating how poverty eradication, reconciliation, and anti-racism go hand in hand.
One of the most consistent messages across both Old and New Testaments is the imperative to care for the poor. The Gospel reminds us to see Christ in every person, and that what is done to the "least of these" is done to Christ (Matthew 25:40). The eradication of poverty must always be an integral goal of the church's mission.
Does your congregation have a creative idea for an innovative project to help work toward poverty eradication in your community? Check out the Eastern Synod's Mission Grant program! We offer grants to support initiatives that are about increasing the vitality of your congregations, strengthening discipleship in Jesus Christ, building relationships, are experimental or exploratory in nature, and are aimed at engaging those outside your walls. More information here: easternsynod.org/faith-in-action/mission-committee/
In addition, the United Church of Canada provides excellent liturgical resources to help your congregation observe the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty through both worship and action: united-church.ca/worship-special-days/international-day-eradication-poverty
Source for statistics: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1110009301
