The living wage has gone up in Niagara. It was set $17.99 per hour last year, but the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network just increased it $18.12.
NPRN Chair Glen Walker says a living wage is different from a minimum wage.
"It is an evidence-based hourly rate at which a household can meet its basic cost of living needs, once government transfers have been added to the family’s income and deductions have been subtracted. Included in the calculation are food, shelter, clothing, transportation, child care, non-OHIP medical insurance, continuing adult education, and items that allow for fuller participation in society, such as communication, family outings, and local recreation."
The NPRN says the cost of household living expenses works out to more $73,000 per year, for a family of four in Niagara.
We currently have 28 certified living wage employers here in the Niagara Region. They are as follows;
- Beechwood Doughnuts
- ClaraDerma+
- Damin Starr Commercial Enterprises
- Dispatch
- Dun' For You Contracting
- Gales Gas Bar
- Gillian’s Place
- Iron Will Raw
- John Howard Society of Niagara
- Kraun Electric
- Marmax Machine & Manufacturing
- Modern Landfill
- Niagara Centre for Independent Living
- Niagara Eye Care Centre
- Niagara Falls Community Health Centre
- Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre
- Niagara Pallet
- Niagara Sexual Assault Centre
- PenFinancial Credit Union
- Person Centered Care
- Positive Living Niagara
- Second Dance Bridal/Feather & Pearl
- ServiceMaster Restore of Niagara
- Sicard RV
- Spirit Athletics
- The Enviro-Niagara Group
- The Niagara Herbalist
- Women's Place of South Niagara.
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