Category: Community

LETHBRIDGE – Nov. 18, 2024, Lethbridge in collaboration with the Alberta Living Wage Network (ALWN or “the Network”) has released a new living wage of $20.00 per hour for Lethbridge. The living wage has decreased by $0.60 over last year after federal and provincial government affordability measures were incorporated into the calculation.

The living wage is defined as the hourly wage a worker needs to earn to cover their basic expenses and have a modest standard of living once government transfers have been added and taxes have been subtracted. The calculation is based on the income needs of three household types: a two-parent family with two young children; a lone-parent family with one child; and a single individual. It assumes that each adult is working full-time hours and includes savings for unexpected costs, continuing education, child care, and a small amount which allows people to participate in the community.

Jaci Zalesak, Executive Director of United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta noted that the living wage calculation has some good news for our community. “The living wage for 2024 had a relatively small decrease over last year. What this means for our community is Lethbridge is becoming a more affordable place to live for workers and their families. With living costs decreasing, Lethbridge is better positioned to attract and retain talent, fostering a stronger local economy and improving the quality of life for its residents. Continuing to support affordability measures will ensure our community remains a great place to live and work.”

“Of all the cities in Alberta, Lethbridge has the highest number of certified Living Wage employers per capita. This shows that not only is Lethbridge an affordable place to live, but employers are committed to socially responsible practices, demonstrating notable recruitment strategies, and prone to have less turn over.

Despite increasing costs on some things like rent, other costs did go down including electricity rates, clothing, expenses, and lower childcare costs which in turn put downward pressure on the living wages. Subsidized childcare and decreased electricity costs have helped families. What’s missing in Alberta is any real action on increasing minimum wage despite every single other province making increases in 2024.” says Ryan Lacanilao, Coordinator, Alberta Living Wage Network.

“The Social Health Equity Network of Lethbridge and Area (SHENLA) encourages the City of Lethbridge and more businesses in our community to become living wage employers. Paying a living wage assures that employees and their families can meet their basic needs with dignity and can participate in community life. Currently, there is a gap of $5.00 per hour between the minimum wage and a living wage in Lethbridge.” Sharon Yanicki, Chair of the Social Health Equity Network of Lethbridge and Area. As more employers are able to pay the living wage, there would be a ripple effect of investment back into the community as well as better overall health and well-being.

As a living wage employer, Ashley Frank, Executive Assistant, & Event Coordinator says “At Southland Trailers, our core values of respecting every individual, hard work and leading with humility shape everything we do. Being a living wage employer embodies these principles, ensuring our team members are valued and supported. By investing in our people, we foster a culture of trust and dedication, strengthening our community and empowering every member of our team.”

The Alberta Living Wage is reviewed annually and announced for each participating community.

Resources:

Learn more about Lethbridge’s living wage calculation: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/63ebf58a5a658d0c030f0f25/t/65789c69e47e235163837ed6/1702403180277/Living+Wage+Report+2023+DRAFT5-combined.pdf

20 municipalities in Alberta released their living wages today – learn more about how Lethbridge’s living wage compares. https://www.livingwagealberta.ca/what-is-a-living-wage/

View ALWN’s common questions and answers about living wages and how employers can get certified.

– News Release from United Way Lethbridge & South Western Alberta

Southland Trailers, recently named Business of the Year at the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Business Awards, continues to demonstrate that their success extends far beyond the bottom line. Through hands-on involvement and substantial financial support, Southland has become a vital contributor to community organizations like the Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association (LTRA).One of Southland Trailers’ signature initiatives, their annual pancake breakfast, raised $10,000 this year for the LTRA, adding to years of support that have made a significant difference in the association’s programming.

Southland’s connection with LTRA goes beyond financial contributions—their team actively participates in events, such as the Ride4Dreams Fundraiser, where they provided a specialty trailer to serve as the stage at the Boots, Buckles & BBQ gala, showcasing their personal commitment to the success of the organization.

Kale Hayes, Executive Director of LTRA, shared the impact of Southland Trailers’ support: “Southland Trailers is not just a donor—they are a true partner in what we do. Their ongoing support has enabled us to deliver transformative programs, including our core therapeutic riding services as well as new opportunities such as adaptive riding, outreach programming, and tailored services for foster children and women in shelters. Some participants who started in our therapeutic riding programs have even progressed to independent riding, a testament to the strength and confidence built through their experiences with us. This kind of impact would not be possible without Southland’s generosity and belief in our mission.”

• Thanks to their contributions, LTRA has successfully delivered several impactful projects:
  Therapeutic riding and adaptive riding programs designed to foster confidence, independence, and physical well-being in participants
• Equine-assisted learning workshops providing personal growth and emotional healing for specialized groups, including foster children and women in shelters
• Outreach programming promoting healing and connection for hundreds of participants across Southern Alberta

Southland Trailers’ generosity also allowed LTRA to welcome Benny, a much-needed program horse who now plays an essential role in both therapeutic and adaptive riding programs. Benny even made his debut in promotional videos for the pancake breakfast campaign, further symbolizing the connection between the two organizations.

“The relationship we’ve built with Southland is truly special,” Hayes added. “With the help of generous supporters like Southland Trailers, we continue to make a meaningful difference across the region—ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation and that each program brings transformative experiences to those who need them most. Their contributions have enabled us to serve more participants and broaden our impact. Together, we invite others to join us in making these opportunities accessible to even more individuals.”

Ashley Frank, Executive Assistant & Event Coordinator at Southland Trailers, shared:
“Southland Trailers is proud to support the Therapeutic Riding Association, as this partnership reflects our core values and our commitment to empowering individuals to grow and succeed. The Therapeutic Riding Association’s mission of fostering personal growth through the healing power of horses aligns perfectly with our dedication to integrity, respecting every individual, and making a meaningful impact. By backing this initiative, we reinforce our commitment to building a strong, inclusive community where people of all abilities can thrive and reach their full potential.”

Both organizations are excited to continue building on this partnership, ensuring that LTRA’s impactful programming remains accessible to those who need it while expanding to connect with even more individuals. With a shared commitment to bettering the communities they serve, Southland Trailers and LTRA look forward to growing their partnership and delivering meaningful experiences to those who will benefit from them in the future.

– Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce – November 13, 2024