Ottawa church advocating for universal basic income as federal bills consider the issue

Ottawa's Rideau Park United Church has been raising awareness for universal basic income, a policy that would give a fixed amount to everybody, every month, regardless of their income.

A concept that aims to lift people out of poverty is growing at Ottawa’s Rideau Park United Church.

The social action and outreach committee at the church has been raising awareness for universal basic income, a policy that would give a fixed amount to everybody, every month, regardless of their income.

Supporters of the policy say it can alleviate the red tape from programs such as welfare and employment insurance.

"Once when got out of the pandemic, prices were rising, housing was becoming unaffordable, food banks were being overwhelmed – we’re seeing it everyday," said Lorraine Busby, a member of the church's social action and outreach committee.

“Basic income is a response to poverty."

The support for basic income with the United Church of Canada goes back decades.

The concept has gained traction in Canada in recent months as a pair of federal bills that would lay the ground work for a new program to provide everyone over the age of 17 a guaranteed livable income are being considered.