Vibrant Communities Calgary - Enough For All

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'Savings on the backs of people living in poverty' is not the right way: VCC responds to provincial budget

VCC welcomes investments in affordable housing, education, health care, and child care, but raises concern over changes to vital income support programs.

27 February 2026

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    In Budget 2026, the Government of Alberta announced vital investments in education and infrastructure, including 14 new school projects in Calgary and over $1 billion over three years to expand the city’s LRT network.
    While those investments are welcome, there are still challenges that lie ahead. VCC is concerned that changes to vital income support programs, including seniors benefits, may push more Albertans deeper into poverty.

    VCC spoke to several outlets about what the budget may mean for Calgarians living on a low income.

    ‘Another version of equalization:’ Calgary reacts to provincial budget

    “What we are seeing are some proposed changes to the income support expected to work program as an example… Savings on the backs of people living in poverty aren’t necessarily the right way to meet the tough needs of a budget year,” said Michelle James, Director of Policy, Vibrant Communities Calgary.

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    Thousands of Alberta seniors to lose income supplement as province faces rising provincial deficit

    Michelle James is director of policy with Vibrant Communities Calgary. She was disappointed to see a lower threshold when the cost of living in Alberta has been going up. “I don’t believe it’s adequate. We’re supporting our seniors to be just above the poverty line,” she said. “Seniors in Alberta are visiting food banks more; they’re skipping their medication. We want to make sure they have access to the financial assistance they need.

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    Alberta government introduces 6-month cap to income support program in bid to increase savings

    Michelle James, director of policy with anti-poverty organization Vibrant Communities Calgary, said “six months is not a very long time" for many clients. “We understand it’s a tough budget and, as the minister said [in his budget speech], tough choices have to be made," James said. "[But] we believe it’s critical that those living in poverty still have access to the financial assistance that helps them meet their very basic needs.”

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