Social Policy Collaborative

The Calgary Social Policy Collaborative (SPC) is a group of community organizations committed to working together to inform the development and implementation of public policy that improves the economic and social well-being of Albertans. This group aims to bring a clear and collective voice to the government to advance policy opportunities that address the most pressing challenges faced by vulnerable Albertans. The group is co-chaired by Vibrant Communities Calgary and The Alex.

What we think

The SPC advocates for key policy actions that have been determined by agencies working on the front lines of serving Calgary communities and the voices of lived experience of poverty.

Poverty isn’t only about income, but it’s always about income on some level. The SPC recognizes the critical importance of providing all Calgarians with the opportunity to build economic and financial capacities which enable them to not only meet their basic needs, but to thrive. Provincial supports such as AISH and Alberta Works should be enough to cover basic needs. They should be indexed annually to reflect the rising cost of living and exemption rates increased to reduce barriers to work. Getting it Right: A critical look at Alberta’s income support program explains these issues and makes recommendations for improvements. Also, check out A Path to Self Sufficiency: Improving the Effectiveness of Alberta's Income Support Program.

All levels of government have a responsibility to ensure that Alberta is adding to and maintaining its affordable housing supply while providing supports to the people that need them most. In 2022, the Social Policy Collaborative has identified three key policy recommendations that will help the provincial government meet its commitment to housing.