TIME TO ROLL UP SLEEVES

From our love of dogs to the fear of hunger, we have much to learn from the 2018 Vital Signs report. The annual barometer of life in Calgary once again gives us an important snapshot of how the city is faring on so many levels, through its survey of 2,262 residents and collection of facts.

This year, the report is a stark reminder the crushing downturn caused by the collapse of oil prices in 2015 still haunts us in so many ways.

Those with jobs are worried and those without employment are struggling.

Almost 75 per cent are concerned about local poverty levels; 24 per cent say the ability to afford more than the necessities of life is below average or poor; and 34 per cent say they often experience personal financial stress.

Especially worrisome is the cost of housing: 38 per cent say the availability of affordable home ownership is below average or poor. For rentals, the figure is 39 per cent, and goes even higher for those under 35.

“That’s about the cost of living, and too many people are being left behind,” says Eva Friesen, president of the Calgary Foundation, the organization responsible for the annual survey.

“A quarter of the population can’t do anything but put a roof over their heads and eat.”

Look down your street. In every fourth house, families are having a hard time.

This should not be surprising. Calgary’s stubborn unemployment rate in August rose to 8.2 per cent, the second-highest in the country.

Oil prices may be rising, but as has been chronicled several times, this is primarily a jobless recovery. The high-paying, high-skilled jobs in the downtown towers are not coming back in significant numbers. Many people are still unemployed, have left town or are taking less lucrative contract jobs. The spinoff is the lower-paying jobs are also taking a hit, with the very visible closure of favourite restaurants and stores.

This all takes a toll on mental and community health as well: 44 per cent of Calgarians who are looking for work or unemployed have a weak sense of belonging.

But we are a resilient people, since 75 per cent rate their quality of life as good to excellent; 82 per cent are surrounded by loving families, companions or friends; 77 per cent volunteer their time; and 57 per cent feel they have the opportunity to make a difference in their community.

And, we are resourceful. Today, Calgary Economic Development will unveil its updated plan for reviving the city’s fortunes. It won’t be easy, but we can’t sit back and expect somebody to hand renewed prosperity to us on a platter. Roll up your sleeves.