Dear Prime Minister Trudeau,

Dear Prime Minister Trudeau,

I wanted to share a perspective that I believe is crucial but often overlooked when addressing the current economic challenges faced by many Canadians.

Last winter, like many snowbirds, some of us traveled, only to return home and find ourselves unable to secure work due to the oversaturation of the labor market with temporary foreign workers. For those of us who haven’t been able to work in a year, the reality is grim: no income, mounting debt, and nothing left to buy even the basics.

While the idea of stimulating the economy through consumer spending may sound appealing, it feels eerily reminiscent of former President George W. Bush’s post-9/11 message to “go shopping” as a solution to national crises. These quick cash payouts or consumer incentives may momentarily boost the economy but fail to address the systemic issues faced by those who are truly struggling.

The reality is that these measures do little for the ACTUAL poor. For many of us, the problem isn’t a lack of incentives to spend—it’s that we simply don’t have the means. We need meaningful action, not band-aid solutions.

Here are a few suggestions that could genuinely help Canadians in need:

1. Free essential healthcare services, such as vision exams or dental care up to $1,000 annually.

2. Food security programs, ensuring access to healthy, affordable food for all.

3. Debt relief support, like targeted grants to help individuals pay off mounting credit card debt caused by years of financial strain.

These are not luxuries; they are lifelines. Canada is bleeding, and incremental measures won’t stop the hemorrhaging. Billionaires and corporations may profit from increased consumer spending, but what about those of us who can’t even make it to the checkout line?

It’s time for policies that prioritize the well-being of the most vulnerable among us, not just the bottom line of big business. We need to see bold, compassionate action that addresses the root causes of poverty and systemic inequality.

Sincerely,

Tina Winterlik

Surrey BC