Introduction

Over 150 youth from across Canada have gathered at Kemptville College, Ontario, this week (August 11-16, 1998) to put Child Poverty on trial. The verdict they have reached is worthy of note: "Guilty on all charges." The Sharing Resources 2000 conference has been coordinated by The Students Commission and TG Magazine for youth ages 13-19. With hard work and determination, delegates raised approximately $750 each to attend the event. Although the group is racially and economically diverse, they have been unified by a deep concern for children who are forced to deal with the all-too-harsh reality of poverty. Throughout the week, delegates have been empowered by keynote speakers, as well as moved by the personal stories of their peers.

Delegates have come to the realization that poverty is not only a financial issue, but one that also encompasses emotional and moral areas.
Through forums, discussions, and panels, delegates have prepared community action plans to fight poverty. Furthermore, delegates have raised serious questions concerning the values, morals and perceptions of society.
They wonder whether they can look up to corporate mentalities while their brothers and sisters stand hungry, silent, alone. Having identified poverty as a "hidden" issue in our nation, these youth are on a mission to unmask and eradicate poverty. . . starting with their own communities. They have seen the truth in Mother Teresas statement: "If you want to change the world, first change what is at your feet."

by Stephanie Collins, Jeremy Barr, Anne-Marie Mosey and Aaron Knox

tgmag@tgmag.ca