My name is Harriett McLachlan. I am the Quebec representative for Canada Without Poverty. Joining me today are Rob Rainer, our Executive Director, and my colleagues.
They are in the audience. Could the Canada Without Poverty colleagues and friends stand up?
Thank you for allowing us to have this opportunity to speak with you today.
Just to let you know about myself, I'm a social worker with a master's degree, and I work with youth. I work with young offenders in an alternative justice organization and youth in difficulty. I've been working as a social worker for over 20 years, but I've also lived the experience of poverty, like many of our board members. I have lived 35 years in poverty. I have been a single mother for 18 years. I've lived with rats in my home for 10 years. I've lived and struggled daily for 35 years in poverty. I'm here today as a witness to that and as a Quebec board member. I am really delighted to be here today.
I will pass you on to Rob Rainer.