Maytree advances evidence-based policy solutions that protect and promote economic and social rights for all people in Canada, with an emphasis on prioritizing those most in need.
We build capacity in the non-profit sector with Maytree Policy School, a six-month program that supports organizations with a social policy focus to effectively engage in the public policy process.
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Housing
Our work on housing includes shaping and sharing policy ideas, investing in innovative solutions, and supporting partners working to strengthen communities.
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Income security
Our work on income security includes mapping current income security programs and understanding where those systems are working well, where there are gaps, and how they can be strengthened.
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Human rights
Our work on human rights aims to understand and strengthen the government mechanisms that implement our international human rights obligations here at home.
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Budget submissions
Drawing from across our policy work, our budget submissions offer advice on how governments in Canada could advance the progressive realization of economic and social rights.
Learn moreFeatured policy publications
To address poverty, the federal government must first deal with the budgetary elephant in the room
The federal government’s plan to dramatically increase defence spending to meet NATO targets creates a “budgetary elephant in the room” that threatens Canada’s ability to address rising poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity.
Underserved: Ontario’s employment services are failing those in greatest need
A Maytree analysis of provincial data reveals deep inequities in Ontario’s employment services, with social assistance recipients consistently faring worse than other job seekers. The findings raise urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and the province’s “employment-first” approach to poverty reduction.
Poverty rising: How Ontario’s strategy failed and what must come next
Ontario’s poverty reduction efforts are failing. Poverty has risen above pre-pandemic levels, and reliance on employment alone isn’t working. But the province has an opportunity to change direction with the next Poverty Reduction Strategy.
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Learning from our mistakes: Ontario needs more than an employment strategy to address rising poverty
Nation-building without people: Maytree’s response to the 2025 Federal Budget
