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Poverty Affects All of Us

Learn what’s happening in Calgary this October for End Poverty Month

1 October 2025

Many of us hear “poverty” and think of extremes. It’s something distant or from the past. In reality, poverty is much closer to us than we realize. It can take just one missed shift, an unexpected expense, or a sudden illness to put housing, groceries, or other basic needs out of reach.

Poverty is complex, and it’s rooted in systems—not individual failure. That’s why, at Vibrant Communities Calgary (VCC), we work to learn directly from those with lived experience of poverty. We listen. We learn. And we work to make poverty a thing of the past.

Voices of Lived Experience

At VCC, we prioritize learning from people with lived experience of poverty. Their voices shape how we educate, advocate, and build strategies for change. These stories are powerful and are essential in driving change.

We invite you to explore some of our recent reports and storytelling projects that elevate the expertise of those with lived experience.

Learn More

A City-Wide Commitment

October 17 is recognized globally by the United Nations as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The Mayor has once again officially declared October as End Poverty Month in Calgary. This declaration is more than symbolic—it’s a commitment to action. And we’re bringing that action to life throughout the month.

Making Ends Meet

Stay tuned! One way we’re amplifying lived experience this month is through the “Making Ends Meet” play, written by Sage Cannon. This project dives into the everyday realities of poverty through personal stories.

An all-new film version of the play will soon be available both online and on screen at the Central Library’s Create Space, where VCC is taking over the space to share real stories, spark dialogue, and shine a light on the impact of collective action on poverty reduction in Calgary.

Take steps towards reducing poverty:

Stay connected by signing up for our newsletter and following us on social media.
Read Enough for All, Calgary’s community-driven poverty reduction strategy.
Share your voice. If you have lived experience of poverty, we want to hear from you. Join the community!
Vote! Know the issues and make an informed choice. Check out VCC’s 2025 Municipal Elections Platform and our latest report about what matters to Calgarians.
Visit the Create Space. Experience the interactive display at the Central Library. Learn, reflect, and take part in the conversation.

Together, we can build a Calgary where no one is left behind. Let’s make October a month of awareness, action, and real change.