London, ON – More than ever, Canadians in their 20s, 30s and 40s and the families they are raising are facing lower earnings, higher costs, greater demands on their time and a deteriorating environment. The challenges that result from this reality have led to Generation Squeeze, the effort to create a national lobby aimed at addressing the issue. The goal is to give Canadians in their 40s and younger more influence in shaping the broad public policies that govern their lives and the futures of their families. Through Generation Squeeze, it is hoped that government investment in programs and services aimed at younger Canadians would increase.
The Middlesex-London Health Unit is hosting a community forum on Thursday, September 17th, featuring keynote speaker and Generation Squeeze founder Dr. Paul Kershaw, from the University of British Columbia’s School of Population and Public Health. Dr. Kershaw will speak about the Generation Squeeze vision of a better generational deal for all Canadians, regardless of their age.
“Dr. Kershaw’s has highlighted the challenges facing a wide segment of the population. We felt it was important to bring the community together to have a discussion as some of the Generation Squeeze findings have major implications for public health,” says Dr. Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “The longer hours parents need to work to meet their financial obligations reduce the critical time they spend with their children which can affect child development and learning. We need to consider strategies that make it easier for families to raise the next generation of Canadians.”
The Generation Squeeze Community Forum will take place on Thursday, September 17th from 12:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the BMO Centre located at 295 Rectory Street in London. In addition to Dr. Kershaw’s presentation, the afternoon will include a question period, opportunity for group discussion and a presentation from the London Youth Advisory Council.
Visit www.eventbrite.ca/e/generation-squeeze-community-forum-tickets-18294313785 to register to attend the Generation Squeeze Community Forum. Advance registration is required.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit, 519-663-5317 extension 2469 or 519-617-0570 (cell.)
Spokesperson:
Dr. Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health and CEO, Middlesex-London Health Unit