Sasha Loewen, Chief Administrative Officer of the Newell Housing Foundation is proud that they are the first employer in Brooks to become certified as a Living Wage Employer.

By Jesse Gill

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Newell Housing Foundation becomes first certified Living Wage Employer in Brooks

Feb 16, 2024 | 8:47 AM

The Newell Housing Foundation is the first certified Live Wage Employer in Brooks.

The Alberta Living Wage Network offers the designation and identifies a living wage as what two working adults supporting two children need to earn to cover basic expenses, after government transfers and deductions.

This calculation varies in each participating community, with the living wage in Brooks set at $19.05 per hour.

Employers may offset this wage by providing benefits that offset living costs, such as health care plans.

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For the purpose of qualifying for a living wage, an employee/contractor is considered as someone who has worked a minimum of 120 hours/year for the organization.

Newell Housing Foundation has 83 employees, offering supportive living for seniors, independent seniors living and low income housing for residents in the County of Newell.

Sasha Loewen, chief administrative officer, said they have a low turnover rate with their employees and feels that paying a living wage plays a part in that.

“I think it shows our employees that we’re committed to making sure they have a good quality of life,” Loewen said.

“We notice that in paying our employees a living wage, they’re committed to our foundation as well and doing a good job when they’re here for our residents.”

Loewen added they are proud to receive the designation and it also helps provide a better team environment and happier staff.

Ryan Lacanilao, the coordinator and economist for the Alberta Living Wage Network said that the ripple effect of a living wage are far reaching and profound.

“When workers make the living wage for their community, they have less stress and can afford healthier food and recreation, easing the strain on the health care system and community services,” Lacanilao said.

“They have more time to spend with loved ones and are more likely to plant roots. Spending increases, especially at small business, which stimulates the local economy. A living wage is key to a vibrant, sustainable community,” he added.

“We’re thrilled that Newell Housing Foundation has certified as a Living Wage Employer, affirming their commitment to the community and demonstrating why Brooks is a great place to live and thrive.”

The mayor of Brooks, John Petrie is excited to see a local organization get on board with this poverty reduction strategy.

“We’re proud to recognize Newell Housing Foundation as our first certified Living Wage Employer and hope to see more businesses and organizations step up,” Petrie said.

The City of Brooks became a member of the Alberta Living Wage Network in 2023.