Living wages rise across BC The living wage for communities across BC increased this year as the cost of living—particularly the cost of housing—continues to rise, the 2021 Living Wage Update, released today from Living Wage for Families BC and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives shows. Family expenses in Metro Vancouver and Victoria rose by seven and 6.8 per cent respectively which is more than the rate of general inflation that was 4.7 per cent over this period.

BC's 300th certified Living Wage Employer! Courtney Agencies, a customs brokerage and freight forwarding business based in Vancouver has become the 300th organization in BC to signify their commitment to ending working poverty by certifying as a Living Wage Employer.

First certified Living Wage bike shop in BC North Park Bike Shop, based in Victoria, is the first bike shop in BC to show their commitment to ending working poverty by certifying as a Living Wage Employer.

The City of North Vancouver officially becomes a Living Wage Employer Last week, we (virtually) presented the City of North Vancouver with a plaque to officially recognize its commitment to ending working poverty, by paying all its staff and contracted workers a Living Wage

First Living Wage Employer in Richmond Purpose CPA is the first organization in Richmond, BC to show their commitment to ending working poverty by certifying as a Living Wage Employer.

Budget 2022 Consultation Submission The provincial government has demonstrated care for our most vulnerable neighbours and a commitment to reducing poverty and inequality during COVID-19. Budget 2022 should build on these exciting foundations and implement further initiatives to support a just recovery for low wage workers. We have 7 recommendations for change that will both lift the wages of BC's lowest paid workers, and lower the cost of living for families with children. 

Our impact this year We've just published our impact report highlighting what we've managed to achieve for low wage workers in 2020-2021.  We know that this past year has been very difficult for many employers and low wage workers. Many employers have experienced challenges and uncertainties that they have never had before. And many low wage workers have been on the front line, risking their lives to keep us safe, fed and cared for. However, for many employers, reopening again gave them an opportunity to ensure that their staff were safe and looked after – and paying a Living Wage has been key to these plans.  

First certified Living Wage drinks maker in Metro-Vancouver! MOD Beverage Ltd, owner of Spectrum Beer Co. and Getaway Hard Cider, is the first alcoholic beverage company in Metro Vancouver to certify as a Living Wage Employer.

Canada's largest concrete and cement making company becomes a certified Living Wage Employer Lafarge Canada has committed to pay their 1,000 direct staff members and contracted service staff the Living Wage for their community in British Columbia.

Victoria's first Living Wage coffee shop 2% Jazz Coffee shop is the first coffee shop in Victoria to signify their commitment to ending working poverty, by paying all their staff and contracted workers a Living Wage