& ’s VitalSigns® A province-wide check-up of the quality of life in Newfoundland & Labrador’s communities for 2014.

A collaboration between the Community Foundation of Newfoundland & Labrador and Memorial University’s Harris Centre.

Community Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador

Boardwalk at Springdale photo by Kenny Louie (CC-BY-2.0 ow.ly/BWWtR) Our population challenge Population (2013) By Dr. Alvin Simms & Jamie Ward Newfoundland & Labrador 526,702 100.0% Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts, Memorial University Northeast Avalon 208,372 39.6%

opulation is more than just a head than 10 per cent over the same time. This shift Avalon Peninsula 64,719 12.3% count of people living in an area; it is an is creating a very different province than the one indicator, in many ways, of underlying founded upon the vitality of remote fishing villages Burin Peninsula 21,187 4.0% cultural, social, and economic forces. and a rural way of life. Currently, approximately People tend to live, raise families, and 80 per cent of the population of the province lives South Coast 16,042 3.0% Pgrow old where they feel at home, where they within an hour of the Trans- Highway. can get the services they need to flourish—like This increased urbanization brings with it two St. George’s 20,737 3.9% healthcare and education—and where they can find sets of additional challenges. For urban areas like work. And if these conditions can’t be met, often the Northeast Avalon, and other areas benefiting Humber District 41,601 7.9% they will move. from the economic boom, there Declining population growth is is more crime, more traffic, Central 38,520 7.3% not a new trend in this province. “The challenge less affordable housing, and Bonavista-Trinity 34,650 6.6% In fact, from 1951 to 2001, so on. For rural parts of the this province saw significant now is managing province that do not have access Notre Dame Bay 36,498 6.9% slowdowns in population growth, economic growth, to the benefits of the drivers and even population decline in of our newfound prosperity— Northern Peninsula 16,467 3.1% the 1990s during the early days supporting offshore oil, mining, and energy of the Cod Moratorium, which innovation, and mega-projects—it is a struggle Labrador 25,222 4.8% saw much of the province’s young to attract the industry and workforce leave to look for work diversification so employment needed to keep in places like Alberta and Ontario. the growth of the young families from leaving, and Pair this mass exodus of young to provide access to services to Age pyramids for Newfoundland & Labrador workers with the duel phenomena province can be an aging population. of aging post-War baby boomers sustained over time The challenge now is and declining birthrates—two managing economic growth, 1996 2011 things that plague most Western and no one gets left supporting innovation, and 80-84 80-84 countries—and the population diversification so the growth of behind.” 70-74 70-74 pyramid of the province has the province can be sustained become inverted. over time and no one gets left 60-64 60-64 But now, 22 years after the behind. If there is one thing 50-54 50-54 Moratorium, the economic tides we can learn from our history, 40-44 40-44

of the province have turned, and Newfoundland & it is that dependence upon one or few industries Male 30-34 Female Male 30-34 Female Labrador is experiencing a period of unprecedented is a recipe for uncertainty. As a large proportion 20-24 20-24 economic prosperity, and for the first time in over of the people and wealth of the province gravitate 60 years, population growth. towards urban centres, it would be very easy for the 10-14 10-14 This growth, however, is small (just 1.8 per cent rural way of life to be left behind, but with regional 0-4 0-4 from 2006-2011), and is certainly not consistent collaboration and innovation, this does not have to across the province. In rural Newfoundland & be the case. The challenge for rural communities 25,000 15,000 5,000 0 5,000 15,000 25,000 25,000 15,000 5,000 0 5,000 15,000 25,000 Labrador, the story of population decline remains across the province now is to look to their much the same, with some regions’ populations neighbours, build upon their collective strengths, A population pyramid shows the proportion of males and females in each age group. The uppermost bulge on the shrinking by 15 per cent from 2006 to 2011, while and work together to build strong, economically population pyramid for Newfoundland & Labrador represents the Baby Boomers (those born between 1945 and the population of the Northeast Avalon—St. diverse regions—it’s not about getting bigger, it’s 1965). The indent below represents the young workers who left the province in the mid-1990s, following the Cod John’s and surrounding areas—grew by more about getting together.¿ Moratorium. (StatCan)

Welcome to Newfoundland & Labrador’s VitalSigns Population Change Regions Newfoundland & Labrador, 1951-2011 10% The Making of This Report Labrador Signs 2014 8% Northern Peninsula NL’s Vital To get the best reading of our province’s vital signs, Just the beginning we chose 13 different theme areas—all selected for 6% Notre Dame Bay their relevance and reliability—and multiple indicators Bonavista-Trinity 4% ewfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® is more for each theme. For most indicators, there was data Central available for the 12 census divisions 2% than just a report. It is the beginning of an Humber District ongoing process of discussions and research in the province, to give us a truly regional picture N 0% St. George’s about the health of the province across several key of the province. From there, our research team –2% areas. CFNL and the Harris Centre will be facilitating collected and analyzed data from a range of sources South Coast conversations with key individuals and groups in and experienced journalists began collecting expert –4% Burin Peninsula analysis and stories from across the province. All to preparation of the next report. These conversations Avalon Peninsula create a comprehensive, yet informative, look at how –6% will inform additional research in areas that may need Northeast Avalon a closer look. we are doing. –8%

For more regional and provincial data, visit 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 www.cfnl.ca or www.mun.ca/harriscentre

2 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 Their average age would be 45 44 married years 42employed 2 separated 6 18 widowed low income 4 divorced 21 single 8 living common-law

Living40 in Northeast A Village of 100 Avalon If Newfoundland & Labrador was made up of 100 people, there would be... 15 5 0-14 years old Living in Labrador Living55 elsewhere on 12 the island of 15-24 years old Their life Newfoundland expectancy would be 57 16 49 51 25-64 years old 65+ years old Male Female 78.9 years 10 Work in construction 8 2 Work in Work in food services hunting & 11 Work in fishing health care 8 Work in 15Work in government retail

The Community Foundation How Find out more elcome to the inaugural edition of Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital of Newfoundland & Labrador to Use Learn about the Signs®. This report, which provides a comprehensive look at how This organizations in our WNewfoundland & Labrador communities are faring in key quality- The Community Foundation of Newfoundland & Labrador promotes and province working to of-life areas, is the result of a unique partnership between the Community sustains healthy communities across our province by providing grants Report improve things, and ask Foundation of Newfoundland & Labrador (CFNL) and Memorial University’s to a wide range of community organizations. CFNL combines a broad, how you can help. Leslie Harris Centre for Regional Policy and Development. province-wide reach with a grassroots focus on small organizations that Our goal through this report is to provide information on the key aspects of can have a major impact in their local communities. The foundation’s goal Start our society to help communities across the province set priorities and identify is to address community problems and to enrich the lives of community conversations Pass it on opportunities for action. We have worked alongside Memorial’s Dr. Alvin members. Use the information in Share this report, the Simms and Jamie Ward (Department of Geography, Faculty of Arts) to gather this report to talk about information in it, and regionally focused information, as each region in the province has its own The Leslie Harris Centre what’s behind the data your reactions with unique set of strengths and challenges. and what people are friends, colleagues, At the heart of both CFNL and the Harris Centre is a focus on collaboration, of Regional Policy & Development experiencing. family, or elected action and impact—we hope this first Vital Signs report will also spark officials. The Leslie Harris Centre of Regional Policy & Development is Memorial collaboration and action across the province. It is our hope that this report will University’s hub for public policy and regional development issues. The provide insight, fuel discussions, inform decisions, prompt partnerships, and Centre links Memorial faculty, students, and staff with groups across Contact us inspire action in our communities. If you are looking Take action Newfoundland & Labrador, supporting active community engagement for ways to make a If you’re moved by what throughout the research process. Working with all units at Memorial, Jennifer Guy (Chair, CFNL) difference, we can help you read, use this report the Harris Centre builds connections, encourages informed debate Rob Greenwood (Executive Director, Harris Centre) connect you. as a starting point for and supports collaboration to enhance the Province through mutually action. beneficial partnerships.

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 3 Arts & culture occupations & all other occupations The Arts Median income, 2011 $10,200 $25,279 Newfoundland Newfoundland & Labrador has a strong artistic tradition, but artists & Labrador in the province continue to earn less than their Canadian counterparts. $19,600 $29,878 Canada

The median income of NLers working in arts and culture is 52 per cent of their colleagues across the country, and 40 per cent of the median income for all NL workers. (StatCan)

Government Spending on Arts & Culture per capita 2009-10

Spending by Spending by provincial governments Reg Winsor federal government

Executive Director of the Newfoundland & Labrador Arts Council $120 $124 $154 $90

Newfoundland & Labrador punches above its weight NL CANADA NL CANADA when it comes to nationally and internationally renowned artists. Names The Federal Government spends slightly less on culture, per capita, in like Lisa Moore, Allan Newfoundland & Labrador compared to the rest of Canada, while the Hawco, David Blackwood Government of Newfoundland & Labrador spends 71 per cent more on and Hey Rosetta! are King’s Point culture than other provincial governments. (StatCan) recognized across the country and around the world. But Reg Winsor, Executive Director of The Newfoundland & Labrador Arts Council—a

Linda Yates and David Hayashida. Photo credit: King’s Point Pottery non-profit Crown agency created to foster and Number of Creative & promote the creation and Performing Artists enjoyment of the arts in Per 100,000 people, 2011 King’s Point Pottery the province—says that in spite of the handful of world Ceramic artists David Hayashida and Linda Yates are mixing art and class writers, actors, and 38 business in rural Newfoundland—with great success. musicians, many artists in the province struggle to AVALON make ends meet. ing’s Point—a small outport commu- ment of innovation have been key elements for our “No doubt that artists in 71 nity on the North coast of Newfound- business being able to move rapidly forward in the the province struggle,” he ST. GEORGE’S land—is home to King’s Point Pottery, big picture... all the while living in a community of says. “Basically, there are only about 10 per cent of a small pottery studio that has become less than 650 people that is a full 6 hours from the K the artists that are making 132 one of the most successful craft businesses in the capital!” a living exclusively from HUMBER DISTRICT country. Their works have travelled far their work. Most will take David Hayashida and Linda beyond their outport home, and another job to supplement 306 Yates are the husband-and-wife even beyond the Atlantic region. their living,” he says. “And “Our outport success that results in less time for NORTHEAST AVALON creative team behind it. In 2013, King’s Point Pottery was creating.” ¿ Public support, the recognition is based on just one named the top craft retailer in At- 371 of their peers, and surroundings thing: teamwork.” lantic Canada at the Atlantic Craft NUNATSIAVUT that inspire: life in rural New- Trade Show, the largest wholesale foundland can sometimes create craft show in Canada. One of their opportunities that help artisans in pieces­—a 12 foot-high image of a 138 the province reach new heights. traditional Newfoundland & Labrador tin-kettle— NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR “Our outport success is based on just one thing: was selected to be used as the introductory piece of “Basically, there are teamwork,” says Hayashida. “We work together as the Canadian pavilion at the Cheongju International only about 10 per 263 cent of the artists that a family, as a community, as a region, as a province, Craft Biennale in South Korea. CANADA are making a living and so we’re able to make an impact both nationally “Sure, it is always going to be a lot of hard exclusively from their As a province, NL has a lower number of creative and performing artists per and internationally.” work but we are so fortunate to be able to live here in work.” capita than Canada. The Northeast Avalon and Nunatsiavut have more “Our craft council and the provincial depart- rural Newfoundland & Labrador.” ¿ than the rest of the province. (StatCan)

4 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 Number of teachers Caroline Secondary & elementary school teachers and educational Education counsellors. 2011, StatCan Literacy has long been an issue for this province­—how are regions Vaughan faring with this in 2014? How is new technology helping? Executive Director of Literacy Newfoundland & Labrador LABRADOR HUMBER 335 AVALON 565 Communities across the 865 province face their fair NORTHEAST share of problems. Caroline AVALON 2455 Vaughan says part of their ST. GEORGE’S solution is hiding in plain BONAVISTA CENTRAL 425 375 sight: improving adult & TRINITY 390 education and literacy will help communities unlock NOTRE DAME BAY new opportunities. SOUTH NUNATSIAVUT 425 “The challenges faced in NORTHERN COAST 85 BURIN PEN 185 rural and urban NL—aging 235 250 populations, the migration of youth to urban areas, shifting economies—are Percentage of population exacerbated by our province’s untapped human with a high school diploma capital,” says Vaughan. “One Aged 15+, 2011 of every two adults in our province still does not meet NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR 72% the desired proficiency level in either language or NORTHEAST AVALON 83% numeracy skill.” AVALON She says it doesn’t take 69% a costly investment to BURIN 62% give people who need it a SOUTH COAST second chance at learning— 54% and the benefits will be ST. GEORGE’S 64% great. HUMBER DISTRICT 73% “Just as our communities Andrew Mercer, online music teacher. Photo credit: CDLI need a diverse, creative, CENTRAL 72% responsive, collaborative, BONAVISTA & TRINITY 61% The Centre for Distance resourceful, and resilient labour pool, so we need NOTRE DAME BAY 55% to encourage these same NORTHERN PEN 58% Learning & Innovation attributes within our Using technology to bridge the gaps between rural Newfoundland & Labrador schools. population.” ¿ LABRADOR 72% NUNATSIAVUT 52%

oung, aspiring musicians in small distance education courses to students attending The percentage of population with a high school diploma in Newfoundland & and remote communities across the high schools in rural, remote and isolated regions of Labrador isbelow the national average of 80 per cent. (StatCan). province face different challenges the province. than those of their metropolitan Mercer says the desire for educational equity in peers when it comes to learning their the province has pushed the limits of online music “One of every two Tuition Fees Ycraft. Like many other school subjects, small class education. adults in our province Full-time undergraduate students, 2013-14 sizes in smaller, more remote “Students are in way more still does not meet the communities make specialized control now. Not only are they desired proficiency teachers rare. This means training “Not only are they able to choose the discipline they level in either language $2,631 $5,767 in styles of performance like jazz want to explore, they can choose or numeracy skill.” Newfoundland & Labrador Canada or violin would require long trips able to choose the the level of the tutor, and refine Newfoundland & Labrador has the lowest post-secondary tuition by car, plane or snowmobile to where they want to be,” he says. discipline they want fees in Canada. (StatCan) reach an area with more training The learning opportunities options. to explore, they can available in the smallest schools “For students in rural choose the level of are now impressive for a school of communities, there’s very little any size. Students can collaborate Percentage of Percentage of opportunity to study a variety the tutor, and refine on projects with other students population with level population with level 3 literacy or higher 3 numeracy or higher of musical styles and musical where they want across great distances. They’ve instruments, or any kind of also, in the virtual classroom, variation off the norm with to be.” been able to learn directly from respect to the arts,” says Andrew musicians like Joel Plaskett, Mercer, an online music educator Lights, Danny Fernandes, and with The Centre for Distance Learning and other international recording artists. Innovation (CDLI). “If the only guy in town plays Recent additions to CDLI include internet- 52% 43% 45% accordion, and you really want to play harp, well, assisted weekly private lessons from professors and 35% you’re out of luck.” graduate students at Memorial University, ensuring That’s where the CDLI­—a division of the K-12 that students across the province can grow into CANADA NL CANADA NL Branch of the Department of Education—came musicians, no matter how remote their home. ¿ in. It was founded in 2000 to develop and deliver Level 3 is the internationally-accepted level of literacy or numeracy required to cope in a modern society. (2012, StatCan)

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 5 Provincial Greenhouse Environment Gas Emissions Million tonnes, 1990-2010 11.4 Our province has some of the most pristine land and seascapes in the world; preserving them in the million tonnes face of a changing climate and increased demand for resources will be a challenge for the future. 12M

10M

8M

6M 1992 1998 1996 1994 1990 2010 2002 2008 2006 2004 Dr. Kelly 2000 Greenhouse gas emissions in Newfoundland & Labrador have declined to Vodden mid-90s levels since peaking in 2002 at 11.4 million tonnes. (Environment Associate Professor Canada) (Research), Environmental Studies, Grenfell Campus

Newfoundland & Labrador Greenhouse Gas has some of the most beautiful sea and landscape Emissions By Source anywhere, and there are 1990-2009 plenty of people across Heavy Industry 44% the province passionate Indian Bay about fishing, hunting, berry picking, and other outdoor activities. But Dr. Kelly Vodden of Memorial University’s Other industries Environmental Policy 1% Manufacturing Institute, Grenfell Campus, 7% says this connection to Commercial & the land and sea is often Institutional overlooked by organizations Indian Bay Ecosystem Corporation 4% and government. “This strong connection Residential A group of concerned citizens came together to protect the Indian Bay watershed 5% to natural resources and environments represents and are now key decision-makers for that area. a major opportunity for Waste community involvement in ituated on the Northeast coast of the institutions, government agencies, conservation 7% resource management that province, the Indian Bay watershed groups and others to carry out projects which gather is, of yet, largely untapped,” covers an area of approximately 700 information, promote advocacy and protect and Power Generation Transportation she says. square kilometres—a system of 14 large enhance the ecosystems and natural resources of the 8% 29% There are examples ponds, a number of smaller ponds, and region,” says IBEC Ecosystem Manager, Stephanie of locals being involved Smany rivers and streams, many of which can only be Hughes. Heavy industry accounts for nearly half of all greenhouse gas emissions in in decisions around accessed via old logging roads. IBEC’s accomplishments include a clean-up of the province. Transportation is number two. (Environment Canada) managing environmental Historically, the Indian Bay area was known in all waterways within the Indian Bay Watershed, resources—from watershed fishing circles for its large native brook trout. public awareness campaigns, and habitat restoration management groups However, the 1970s and 1980s saw increases activities. In addition, IBEC, along with academic Recycling Depots to local fisheries and in resource demands without an equal growth in and government partners, has compiled a database Multi-Material Stewardship Board, 2014 environmental protection resource management. Poor conservation ethic of habitat, life history, and fisheries-related committees—however, she caused serious declines in the area’s watershed. information in the area. says, these examples are So in 1988 a group of concerned citizens came Recognized as the foremost steward of the not as widespread, well- together to take up the cause. Through sustainable watershed, the federal government granted IBEC networked, or supported by development and management, and a variety of exclusive authority to set fishing policies for governments, as they could conservation and restoration initiatives, the Indian the area, which has enabled them to negotiate be. ¿ Bay Ecosystem Corporation has made great strides restrictions with commercial operations in the 9 57 in restoring the watershed back to its former region. IBEC has also negotiated buffer zones with 10 condition. the forestry industry and other interests. ¿ NORTHEAST “We work with local citizens as well as academic AVALON ALL OF NL NOTRE DAME BAY

NL Weather WETTEST DRIEST SNOWIEST WARMEST COLDEST 1981-2010, Environment Canada SOUTH COAST LABRADOR CENTRAL CENTRAL LABRADOR 1594 mm 951 mm 452 cm 22°C –23°C annual precipitation. annual precipitation. annual snowfall. mean maximum hottest mean minimum coldest month temperature. month temperature.

6 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 Making clean Youth water more Youth unemployment and crime rates here in Newfoundland & Labrador are higher than the affordable national average. How can we inspire youth to connect more with their communities? A professor at Memorial is working on technology to dramatically reduce the costs of water filtration. Going Off, Growing Strong

hen Dr. Tahir Husain of the Faculty of A program connecting young people with elders to bridge the generation gap and to Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial help provide food for the community. University set out to find affordable filtration technology to supply safe drinking water in Travis Perry n isolated communities along the remote North people. Since then, the program has served more small communities in the province, he didn’t Coast of Labrador it is an ongoing challenge to than 350 young people, providing days out on the Wthink he would find a potential solution in the oil and gas industry. Chairperson of the Canadian balance social, environmental and economic land with experienced hunters and the opportunity But that’s just what he did. Federation of Students Newfoundland & Labrador change with traditional ways of life. For youth, to develop their navigational and hunting skills, Chlorination is the most commonly used drinking water treatment this challenge can feel even greater, with a and learn about fishing, trapping, and cultural in the province, and while chlorine is a highly efficient disinfectant, “With a tuition fee freeze, Iwidening generation gap growing between their traditions. Those completing the program become if precursors—such as dissolved organic carbons from decomposing expanded student grant changing ways of life and that of their elders— Junior Harvesters. The youth are also involved in plants—are present in the water prior to chlorination, by-products program, and a stronger job leaving many young people struggling with mental distributing and sharing wild meats with elders and known as DBPs—disinfection by-products—can be created. Some of market in Newfoundland & health issues. In the face of these challenges, building char smoke houses for the community to these DBPs can be harmful to health over long periods of time, and Labrador, fewer graduating communities like Nain are seeking ways to bridge use. students feel like they have been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. the generational divide, sustain traditional know- The program—the first of its kind in Canada— need to leave in order to One of the most effective ways to reduce the creation of these how, build resiliency among young people, and is a collaboration between community members, the make a living,” says Travis by-products is to filter out any natural organic precursors before improve the quality of life of all its residents. local Nain Community Government and the chlorination using activated carbon filters. However, treatments Perry, Chairperson of the Canadian Federation of “Aullak, sangilivallianginnatuk” or “Going Off, regional Nunatsiavut Government. like activated carbon filtration may be too expensive for many small Growing Strong”is a program that brings together By building relationships with positive adult communities. Students Newfoundland & Labrador. youth and hunters and fishers in the community to role models, including hunters and harvesters, the So Husain and his team teach young people about harvesting country food. community has found a new way to address mental began a research study to find “Despite this positive outlook, there are still many The food that is harvested is then donated to the health issues among at-risk youth. Community an affordable alternative. struggles that youth face community freezer program to help improve local members are pleased with the results, noting The team found that oily in this province. Financial food security. the increased self-confidence demonstrated by fly ash, a substance generated issues like student debt “Going off” is the local term for travelling out participants, as well as their increased presence and by burning heavy fuel oil— “This has been my dream, remain a concern for many onto the land to hunt and fish. role in the community. Furthermore, many of those such as those burned in oil to develop an affordable youth, as does public In 2012, the program began with ten young that had elected to leave school chose to return. ¿ refineries and power plants— technology for safe drinking transit, sustainability, and contains 80-90 per cent water in small and rural now, more than ever, mental unburned carbon, making it a communities, for many health.” highly effective substitute for years.” “The difficulties of the expensive raw materials balancing academic life, needed for activated carbon work life, finances, and filtration. other responsibilities,” notes This industrial waste Perry, “are increasingly Nain by-product that would otherwise be thrown away, has shown the taking a toll on young potential to be used as a low cost water filter, which would require people’s mental health, minimal retrofitting, and would greatly reduce potentially harmful and many youth do not by-products in small water systems. have access to adequate “This has been my dream,” Dr. Husain says, “to develop an supports.” ¿ affordable technology for safe drinking water in small and rural

communities, for many years.” ¿ Photo credit: Dorothy Angnatok Proportion of Population Young Adults Aged Total Youth Youth Under a Boil Order June 2, 2014 20–29 Living at Home Unemployment Rate Crime Rate 2011 Ages 15-24, 2013 Calculated per 100,000, 2013 LABRADOR 5% Rate for all CANADA 42.3% Rate for all workers workers 15+ Canada 15+ NL NORTHERN PENINSULA 17% NL 44.7% 7% 11.7%2645.7 NL 2645.7 NOTRE DAME BAY 14% NUNATSIAVUT 43.8%

LABRADOR 34.7% NL 16.9% BON-TRI 5% CANADA 2373.2 NORTHERN PENINSULA 57.8% MALE & CEN 2% NOTRE DAME BAY 51.8% FEMALE CANADA 13.5% The youth crime rate in Newfoundland & HUM 2% BONAVISTA-TRINITY 46.3% Labrador is roughly 12 per cent higher than the CENTRAL 41% ST. GEORGE’S 11% national rate. (StatCan) 30% HUMBER DISTRICT 46.3% NL 18% SOUTH COAST ST. GEORGE’S 52.8%

BURIN PENINSULA 14% SOUTH COAST 54.5% FEMALE CANADA 11.9% BURIN PENINSULA 56.5% Right across the country, youth unemployment rates AVALON PENINSULA 17% AVALON PENINSULA 63.5% are higher than rates for all workers. This is the

NORTHEAST AVALON 0% NORTHEAST AVALON 39.2% NL 15.4% case in Newfoundland & Labrador, where the youth NUNATSIAVUT 0% unemployment rate is more than 5 points higher than the total unemployment rate, and the female rate is 7 points On June 2 of this year, around 30 per cent of residents of the South Coast In Newfoundland & Labrador, the percentage of MALE CANADA 15.1% were under a boil order. These figures do not include boil orders necessitated twentysomethings who still live at home is slightly higher than their peers across the country. (StatCan) by planned maintenance. (Environment Canada) higher than the national average. (StatCan)

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 7 *Top contributors to the economy for each region are based upon estimated GDP figures that are calculated by Economy multiplying the number of workers in each sector by the national median productivity per worker for that How can rural communities take advantage of the economic boom? Dr. Doug May sector (productivity is the total GDP NUNATSIAVUT Professor of Economics, of a particular sector divided by the Top 5 Contributors Faculty of Arts, Memorial number of workers in that sector). to the Economy* Municipal Gov’t 50% University (Statistics Canada) Healthcare 11% Fishing & Hunting 11% Newfoundland & Labrador’s Non-Gov’t Orgs 10% Retail 4% economy is certainly booming—a far cry from Top Five Employers Fishing & Hunting 21% the economic hardship that NAIN Other Services 17% plagued the province for Government 17% LABRADOR Retail 16% decades. NUNATSIAVUT Healthcare 10% “Clearly, our situation Top 5 Contributors to the Economy* has changed, as has other Iron Ore Mining 64% people’s perspective on the Construction 5% Newfoundland & Labrador K-12 Schools 4% Mining Services 3% economy,” says Dr. Doug Retail 2% May, Professor of Economics Top Five Employers at Memorial University. Retail 22% “When I go to conferences Mining 17% Construction 10% now, they talk about Healthcare 9% Alberta and Newfoundland Food Service 9% & Labrador in the same breath.” But, Dr. May warns, LABRADOR

the boom is tied to the HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY fluctuations of an economy that is dependent upon the natural resource sector. Photo credit: Lei Gilongos, Designer Dynamic Airshelters “If you think of a wave analogy, off the Atlantic, NORTHERN we’re not at the top of the PENINSULA crest, which came when oil Top 5 Contributors Dynamic Air Shelters to the Economy* production and, primarily, Healthcare 16% oil prices, went up,” he says. HUMBER Electricity 15% An innovative company with a manufacturing facility in Grand Bank has “There was a lot of mining DISTRICT Construction 11% Municipal Gov’t 10% Top 5 Contributors become a major employer in the area. effort in Western Labrador, Retail 8% to the Economy* and that will continue. Now, Construction 21% Top Five Employers if you look at the latest Retail 8% Retail 26% Municipal Gov’t 8% t’s said that you can’t change the direction of the “In Newfoundland, in rural communities, you figures, we’re losing jobs Healthcare 19% Universities 6% Food Service 16% wind, but you can adjust your sails. As a busi- have, potentially, a very stable work force,” says compared to this time last Wholesale 6% Manufacturing 12% nessperson and an experienced hot air balloon Riggs. “In Grand Bank, the workers had roots in the year, but a lot of those jobs Other Services 10% Top Five Employers racer, Harold Warner knows a great deal about community, so they were not likely to uproot and are associated with the Retail 22% change. In the past ten years, Warner’s compa- look for other work.” natural contraction that Healthcare 15% Construction 11% Iny—Dynamic Air Shelters—has shifted its focus So in September of 2006, Dynamic moved to comes with some parts of Food Service 11% ST. GEORGE’S and its base of operations in a major way, leading to Grand Bank on a full-time basis. the resource sector.” ¿ Manufacturing 10% Top 5 Contributors

a period of smooth sailing for the company and a sig- “It’s been a success, most definitely,” says Riggs, to the Economy* STEPHENVILLE nificant contribution to employ- “though, not without its challeng- K-12 Schools 19% Construction 13% ment for the town of Grand Bank, es. Logistically, [Grand Bank] is Electricity 10% ST. GEORGE’S on the Burin Peninsula. “Logistically, not ideally situated to be moving Retail 10% The company, which began as a product, but you can manage that Wholesale 6% manufacturer of hot air balloons, [Grand Bank] is not with the right skill and co-opera- Top Five Employers now uses the same technology to tion from a whole lot of people.” GDP Per Capita Retail 21% PORT AUX BASQUES ideally situated to be Healthcare 14% create inflatable shelters, which Riggs says that preparedness (2007 dollars, 2007 population) Education 10% can be used for anything from mo- moving product, but and proactive scheduling have Transportation 10% Construction 9% bile industrial sites to temporary been essential in the company’s $60,000 you can manage that NL GDP grew shelters for disaster relief efforts. approach to transportation 7.8% in 2013 The company first came to with the right skill challenges. She also credits the $55,000 NL Grand Bank in 2002 to work with company’s relationship with the SOUTH COAST and co-operation $50,000 the province’s offshore operations community, such as one nearby CANADA Top 5 Contributors to the Economy* on a temporary basis. At its base from a whole lot of woodworking shop, which now $45,000 Marine Transport 12% of operations in Calgary, Dynamic people.” supplies the company’s shipping Electricity 12% was facing a new challenge: containers. $40,000 Municipal Gov’t 12% Banking 10% retaining skilled workers, with the Since the move, the company has $35,000 Aboriginal Gov’t 6% lucrative oil sands projects nearby, remained profitable, weathered Top Five Employers was proving difficult. the recession in 2008, and has expanded into new Retail 16%

2011 Government 16% 2012 2013

“Calgary has a lot of transient workers, workers global markets. 2001 2010 2007 2002 2003 2005 2008 2006 2009 that would work somewhere for three months and Currently, Dynamic Air Shelters employs more 2004 Fishing 12% Manufacturing 11% then move again,” says Dynamic VP Operations Kay than 75 locals on a full-time basis, with a payroll of Buoyed by offshore oil, Labrador mining, and a variety of mega-projects, Newfoundland Other Services 10% Riggs. over $2 million dollars, annually. ¿ & Labrador’s economy is one of the fastest growing in the country. (StatCan)

8 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR Top 5 Contributors to the Economy (2012) Oil Extraction & Support Services 28% Finance, Insurance & Real Estate 12% Construction 9% Mining 9% Scott Lynch Healthcare 7% Associate professor of Economics, Faculty of Arts, Memorial University Top 5 Employers (2013) Healthcare 16% With a booming economy, Retail 14% “prosperity” is the watch- word in the province. Construction 9% However, not everyone is reaping the benefits of the Government 8% St. Anthony Education 8% province’s economic windfall. “Our preliminary research indicates that the rising Oil extraction and support activities account for 28 per cent of Newfoundland & Labrador’s GDP (gross domestic product: the total goods and services produced in prosperity tide does not float the province’s economy). Despite this, the oil industry only accounts for 4 per cent all boats,” says Scott Lynch, of total employment in the province, with retail employing the most at 16 per cent. associate professor in the (Statistics Canada, Newfoundland & Labrador Statistics Agency, Newfoundland Department of Economics at & Labrador Department of Finance) Photo credit: SABRI Memorial. ”The bottom 20 per cent never had a boat in NOTRE DAME the water, so their economic BAY St. Anthony Basin well-being has flatlined.” Top 5 Contributors CENTRAL “Since first oil back in to the Economy* Construction 20% Top 5 Contributors 1997, the top 20 per cent Municipal Gov’t 14% to the Economy* Construction 11% Resources Incorporated have increased their share Retail 8% Banking 7% Healthcare 11% of the economic pie at Seafood prod 7% Retail 10% A not-for-profit organization dedicated to expanding the Northern Peninsula’s Electricity 9% the expense of the middle Municipal Gov’t 7% class,” says Lynch. “The only Top Five Employers economic base—in harmony with a rural setting and lifestyle. Retail 26% group who have a positive Manufacturing 17% Top Five Employers Retail 28% relationship with their share Healthcare 14% t started with 3,000 metric tonnes of northern “In a way, we’re the economic driver for the Other Services 12% Healthcare 20% of the economic pie and their Construction 10% Food Service 13% shrimp, and has grown into an enterprise that 16 communities in the region,” says Sam Elliott, Other Services 10% has brought employment, prosperity, and greater Executive Director of SABRI. “The revenue derived well-being appears to be Construction 8% the top fifth of the income ST. ANTHONY stability to a large region of the province. from the resources, we reinvest it into our own St. Anthony Basin Resources Incorporated region. Through that investment, we were able to distribution.” ¿ I(SABRI) is a not-for-profit social enterprise located re-energize the fishery, and through our partnership on the Great Northern Peninsula. The organization with Clearwater [Seafoods Ltd.], we now have a NORTHERN BONAVISTA- PENINSULA TRINITY was created in 1997 following a major increase in state-of-the-art shrimp and crab plant.” Top 5 Contributors the total allowable catch of northern shrimp. The SABRI also invested in a massive cold storage to the Economy* Construction 18% increased allocation presented a great opportunity facility. Because of this and other upgrades, St. Healthcare 12% for the region, and they wanted to handle it wisely. It Anthony is now one of only two international “Our preliminary Retail 11% was the task of the organization to manage the new container ports for the province. Municipal Gov’t 7% research indicates that NOTRE Seafood prod 6% revenue. SABRI has also led several other notable DAME BAY the rising prosperity DEER LAKE On behalf of the 16 communities in the region— initiatives in the region, including an oral history GANDER Top Five Employers tide does not float all Retail 27% each one too small to negotiate alone—SABRI project. Through this project, stories with cultural CORNER BROOK HUMBER boats.” DISTRICT GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR Manufacturing 21% BONAVISTA set out to expand the region’s economic base and and historical significance to the region were CENTRAL Healthcare 14% STEPHENVILLE Food Service 13% improve employment opportunities in the region, documented, from traditional foods and remedies to BONAVISTA— TRINITY Construction 12% balancing effective industrial governance and the labor practices. ¿ ST. GEORGE’S region’s rural sensibilities.

SOUTH COAST NORTHEAST AVALON Weeks Worked Per Year

BURIN ST. JOHN’S EI Beneficiaries AVALON PORT AUX BASQUES Average, 2010 PENINSULA PENINSULA Per 100,000 people PLACENTIA NUNATSIAVUT 35.3 30,000 LABRADOR 43.2 25,000 NORTHERN NORTHERN PENINSULA 31 PENINSULA 20,000 AVALON NORTHEAST NOTRE DAME BAY 33.5 BURIN PENINSULA AVALON 15,000 BONAVISTA-TRINITY 34.5 PENINSULA Top 5 Contributors Top 5 Contributors Top 5 Contributors to the Economy* to the Economy* 10,000 CENTRAL 41.5 to the Economy* Petro Refineries 24% Construction 11% NL Healthcare 13% Electricity 12% Federal Gov’t 11% HUMBER DISTRICT 41.5 5,000 Municipal Gov’t 13% Construction 12% Provincial Gov’t 7% Construction 12% Municipal Gov’t 7% Oil Production 7% CANADA ST. GEORGE’S 38.3 Retail 10% Retail 5% Defence 6% Banking 8% SOUTH COAST 33.3 Top Five Employers Top Five Employers BURIN PENINSULA JAN 2011 JAN SEP 2012 SEP 2013 MAY 2011 MAY SEP 2010 JAN 2012 JAN JAN 2013 JAN 35.9 JAN 2010 JAN MAY 2012 MAY MAY 2013 MAY MAY 2010 MAY Top Five Employers Manufacturing 20% Retail 13% SEPT 2011 Retail 19% Retail 17% Construction 12% AVALON 37.5 Healthcare 18% Healthcare 13% Government 11% While the number of EI beneficiaries per 100,000 people more-or-less mirrors the national rates in urban areas Manufacturing 12% Construction 9% Healthcare 10% NORTHEAST AVALON 44.8 Other Services 11% Food Service 7% Food Service 8% of the province such as the Northeast Avalon, in regions more reliant upon seasonal employment—such as Construction 8% tourism and the fishery—like the Northern Peninsula, the number of EI beneficiaries fluctuates significantly NL 40.7 depending upon the time of year. (StatCan) CANADA 45.5

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 9 Total Population Change 2012–13 Newcomers –7 NUNATSIAVUT LABRADOR 179 One way to cope with our demographic shift is to attract new people to -289 NORTHERN PENINSULA the province. How is Newfoundland & Labrador faring? Dr. Amanda Bittner –580 NOTRE DAME BAY –314 BONAVISTA-TRINITY Associate professor of Political Science, Faculty of CENTRAL 228 MUN Med Gateway Arts, Memorial University –139 HUMBER DISTRICT Medical students easing the transition for refugees arriving in the province. “The province is not typical with regard to immigration –260 ST. GEORGE’S issues, in the sense that it ach year, St. John’s welcomes many from other countries and cultures, as they take is a non-traditional place refugee individuals and families who a health history for newcomers that includes an –258 SOUTH COAST for folks to immigrate to,” have fled from their home country to interview and physical screening,” says MUN says Dr. Amanda Bittner, escape combat zones, environmental Med Gateway Coordinator, Kate Duff. After the –268 BURIN PENINSULA Associate Professor in devastation, or persecution based on initial meeting, Gateway then matches newcomer Memorial’s Department of Esex, race, religion, nationality or political opinion. participants with a family physician, shares the –913 AVALON PENINSULA Political Science. In 2005, after learning about refugee health, two health history with the physician, and makes +2482 “Most Canadian second-year medical students referrals to specialists for any NORTHEAST AVALON immigration takes place in approached their professor with needs identified through the the bigger urban centres, an idea to assist refugees who “Experiences in screening. Faculty members In 2012–2013, the population of Newfoundland & Labrador decreased by a where there is a longer were arriving in the province and involved with Gateway also total of 139. (StatCan) Gateway stay with history of immigration, struggling to make a connection to conduct research on the health more volume, and more the provincial healthcare system. volunteers and needs and issues of refugees in St. systems in place to support That idea led to the creation of John’s. participants long and welcome newcomers. MUN Med Gateway, a service- In addition to its core services, Newfoundland & Labrador Natural Population Change 2012–13 learning volunteer program for after the session, Gateway provides leadership is developing many of these first- and second- year medical opportunities for students who shaping the way supports, and where they students in the Faculty of develop, fundraise for, and deliver do exist, I would argue, Medicine at Memorial University. participants view additional initiatives that further High Low immigration is a little more The program increases access to promote health and well-being for their new community successful.” Natural Population Change (2012-13) healthcare for local refugees and newcomer refugees in St. John’s. But Bittner feels that provides medical students with and the way These initiatives have strived to St. John’s Metro: 487 Avalon Peninsula: –272 diversity in the province is experience serving people from meet many needs, from essentials Labrador: 205 Notre Dame Bay: –185 volunteers view really beginning to grow. Nunatsiavut: 23 Bonavista-Trinity: –184 other countries and cultures. like car seats and vitamin D “You can see it in The program is now an their future role as supplements, to gently-used particular when you look established program within the prom dresses and hosting holiday Natural population change refers to the difference between the birth rate physicians.” around the MUN campus,” Faculty of Medicine and has festivities. and the death rate. From 2012-2013, the Northeast Avalon had the highest says Bittner. “There are a lot involved hundreds of medical “Experiences in Gateway stay natural population growth. The Avalon Peninsula had the highest natural more international students students and refugees. It operates with volunteers and participants population decline. (StatCan) at Memorial today than through a partnership with the Association for New long after the session, shaping the way participants there were ten years ago.” Canadians and Eastern Health. view their new community and the way volunteers But the challenge now is “At our weekly sessions, Gateway provides view their future role as physicians,” says Duff.¿ getting these students to medical students with experience serving people Migration 2012–13 stay in the province after they graduate, she says. “The more supports and programs in place to ensure High Low work placement and social supports, the likelier this is International Migration (2012-13) to happen.” ¿ St. John’s Metro: 749 Nunatsiavut: 1 Labrador: 94 South Coast: 3 Avalon Peninsula: 46 Notre Dame Bay: 4

Interprovincial Migration (2012-13) Central: 60 St. John’s Metro: –314 Bonavista-Trinity: 22 Humber District: –177 Nunatsiavut: 6 St. George’s: –164

Intraprovincial Migration (2012-13) St. John’s Metro: 1,560 Avalon Peninsula: –913 “The more supports Central: 231 Notre Dame Bay: –580 Humber District: 31 Bonavista-Trinity: –314 St. John’s and programs in place to ensure work placement and social supports, the likelier International migration is immigrants and refugees moving to an area, this is to happen” interprovincial migration is people moving from one province to an other province, intraprovincial migration is people from one region of the province Medical students Gordon Stockwell and Emily Kendell working with Ramadhan Ali Ibrahim moving to another. (StatCan) from Uganda during a Gateway session in 2012. Photo credit: Tyler John.

10 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 NEWFOUNDLAND Civic Engagement, & LABRADOR CANADA

Total Charitable Donations Belonging & Leadership per capita (2012) Craig Pollett $155 $248 How connected do you feel with your government? How connected do CEO of Municipalities NL you feel to your community? Volunteers “Engagement doesn’t Aged 15 and Over (2010) simply mean notification, or even consultation,” says Craig Pollett, CEO 52% 47% of Municipalities NL. “On Tax Filers Who Donate the government side, we’re slowly realizing that (2012) engagement requires two-way communication— 21% 22% listening and confirming—in a way that the public Median Charitable Donations actually communicates. (2012) On the public side, we’re reaching out in new ways and demanding that new $340 $270 ideas be heard and reflected Average Annual Spending on in public policy. When the two trends start to line up, Recreation per Person (2012) we’ll have something really powerful, but we’re not $3,831 $3,773 there yet.” “The old ideas that Life Satisfaction—Satisfied Photo credits: TC Media TC credits: Photo government ‘does’ policy or Very Satisfied (2013) and the people ‘receive’ it, are falling away,” says Pollett. “People are 93% 92% understanding they have Sense of Belonging to Local Community— Branch a role in public policy and governments are realizing Somewhat Strong or Very Strong (2013) they are simply the stewards.” ¿ 77% 66%

Newfoundlanders & Labradorians volunteer at higher rates than the rest of Canada, but donate to charities less. Although people here are more likely The Town of Branch to have made a donation than anywhere else in Canada, our per capita donations are low. The median donation, however, at $340, is higher than Small town, big community engagement. the national—it means half of those claiming a donation gave more than $340, and half less. NLers also have a strong sense of belonging in their communities. (StatCan) rom afar, the Town of Branch seems She suggests the high level of civic engagement fairly typical. Located on the Cape Shore in Branch is rooted in the variety of activities and of Newfoundland, the small former groups in the community. Initiatives like The fishing town is home to just over 300 Singing Kitchen, a community kitchen where individuals. seniors and others are encouraged to come enjoy Voter turnout F But upon closer examination, one thing that is not each other’s company and eat a nutritious meal. typical here is the voter turnout—for the municipal These sorts of things provide both much-needed 100% FEDERAL ELECTIONS—CANADA election in 2013 it was 92 per cent. programming and volunteer All-time high Of the 214 eligible voters, 197 opportunities for the citizens of 96% (1949) cast their ballots for town council, “While many Branch, allowing them to get more PROVINCIAL ELECTIONS—NL making it one of the highest rates communities in involved. 75% of voter turnout in the province . “There’s something for FEDERAL ELECTIONS—NL There was no hotly contested recent years have everyone and different interests council seat, and no inflammatory started to believe people may have,” says Power, scandal compelling the public to mentioning other groups like the 50% get to the polls. The only mildly that their future is Recreation Committee, the fire

hot-button issue was that the department, and the community All-time low town’s water system is undergoing limited, we feel that garden. 48% (2008) Since Confederation, there have been repairs and its artesian well our future is bright.” Recently there was also a 25% system is due to be hooked up. Literary Arts Festival, featuring provincial and federal 2011 1972 1979 1962 1993 So why the high turnout? sessions on storytelling, 1949 elections in the same “The people of Branch feel songwriting, and a public forum year six times. The very connected to their community, maybe moreso on literacy and essential skills for the workplace. seventh could happen than many other places,” says Mayor Kelly Power, “While many communities in recent years have Since joining Canada in 1949, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have in 2015. one of five people elected to the province’s only all- started to believe that their future is limited, we feel always turned out in smaller numbers than the rest of Canada for Federal female council. that our future is bright,” she says.¿ Elections. We tend to turn out in larger numbers for provincial elections. (StatCan)

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 11 Number of General Health & Family Practitioners Per 100,000 — 2011 population

Newfoundlanders & Labradorians have higher rates of diabetes, 146 NL obesity, smoking than national averages. We also eat fewer fruits & vegetables and exercise less. Dr. Shree 134 CANADA Mulay

Associate Dean and Professor, Community Obesity Rates Health and Humanities with Population aged 18+ the Faculty of Medicine at Memorial University 30% In her research of rates of obesity and diabetes in 25% Newfoundland & Labrador, 20% Dr. Shree Mulay came across an interesting account of a 15% survey conducted 50 years ago aboard the medical vessel MV Christmas Seal. 2011 2012 2013 2010

They had collected urine 2009 samples of people living in small coastal towns of the province, testing for Proportion of tuberculosis and measuring Population Not Eating Population with glucose, and out of the Recommended Fruits & Perceived Life Stress Holyrood (2013) sample size of 5,100 people, Vegetables (2013) as “Quite a Lot” 150 people had diabetes— about three per cent.

Funded in part by the Compared with the Community Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador eight per cent it is today, that indicates a significant 59% 23% change. 75% 15% Campers at Camp Douwanna. Photo credit: Camp Douwanna “While we have only CANADA NL an approximation for CANADA that time,” she says, “we NL do know that at present, Camp Douwanna rates of obesity, diabetes, smoking, and alcohol Smoker Rates Diabetes Rates Giving kids with diabetes opportunities to have fun and learn consumption in this 30% strategies to manage their health. province are substantially NL 12% higher than the Canadian NL average. Inactivity rates and 10% ake-up. Flag Raising. Blood to learn new skills in managing their diabetes, like 25% consumption of fruits and Glucose Monitoring. Breakfast. giving an injection on their own for the first time or 8% vegetables are substantially Arts & Crafts. Injections and learning how to count carbohydrates.” 6% lower than other provinces.” 20% Calibrations. Swimming. With the province’s high incidence of diabetes, CANADA So what has changed in CANADA 4% Lunch. education is crucial. But the camp faces a number those 50 years? W It’s a typical morning at Camp Douwanna. of challenges. Along with transportation issues 15% 2% “Many things have Camp Douwanna is one of stemming from the distance changed,” says Mulay, “but twelve camps across the country between communities and the 2011 2011 2012 2012 2013 2013 2010 2010

most of all the way of life [in 2009 2009 operated by The Canadian challenge of securing enough “Campers also get the province] has changed Diabetes Association. The focus qualified medical staff to attend dramatically.” ¿ of the camps is to provide children to learn new skills camp, there are significant living with type 1 diabetes in managing their financial issues, as well. Population with opportunities to enjoy an “Diabetes doesn’t discriminate Physically Active authentic camp experience while diabetes, like giving and therefore we get all types During Leisure Time Life expectancy having all of their diabetes needs an injection on their of families from various (Moderately Active or Active) (2007-2009) monitored by a dedicated team of backgrounds who may not have trained medical professionals. own for the first time the transportation or financial CANADA “These camps offer youth a or learning how to means to attend camp,” says 55% chance to be independent and Abramson. The camp does count carbohydrates.” confident in managing their offer “camperships”—camp 50% 81.1 78.9 disease,” says Lara Abramson, scholarships—for those that NL Manager, Camp & Youth cannot afford to pay the camp 45% “Many things have Programs, for the Canadian fee, though Abramson says that CANADA NL Diabetes Association in the Atlantic region. “It also they receive more scholarship applicants from changed, but most 40% provides an enormous social support so that even Newfoundland than anywhere else in the Atlantic of all the way of life when they leave camp they know that there is a region. [in the province] 2011 2012 2013 2010 community of people who they can turn to in times “We believe in making camp as affordable as has changed 2009 of need, and broadens their network beyond their possible and we make every attempt to ensure the dramatically.” family and health care providers. Campers also get cost of camp isn’t a barrier for families.” ¿ All health data used here is for the population aged 12+, except in Obesity Rates, which is 18+. (StatCan)

12 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 Mode of Transport to Work Transportation 2011 CAR, TRUCK OR VAN Newfoundland & Labrador is heavily reliant on motor vehicles to get DRIVER around. If gas prices continue to increase as they have, how will people cope? 79%

CAR, TRUCK OR VAN PASSENGER 9%

WALKING NL 6%

OTHER METHODS CANADA 6%

The vast majority of people in Newfoundland & Labrador drive to work, with only 9 per cent carpooling. (StatCan)

Average commuting distance StatCan 2011

Clarenville NORTHERN PENINSULA (SHORTEST) 7KM

LABRADOR (LONGEST)

Photo credit: The Random Age-Friendly Communities Board CREST Bus 52KM New transportation pilot projects across the province are trying to help seniors maintain independence and good health. Regulated Gas Prices 2006-2014, Board of Commissioners of Public Utilities

$2.00 ass transit is not a guarantee in government gain a better and more informed Newfoundland & Labrador. The understanding of the transportation needs of seniors St. John’s metropolitan area is in the province of Newfoundland & Labrador,” says $1.717 in serviced by the Metrobus transit Bonnell. Nunatsiavut system. Long-haul bus companies One such pilot was awarded to the Town of Mcan move people from one area Clarenville, in an effort to keep of the province to another, but its seniors connected. The for seniors without their own “Transportation is Clarenville Region Extended $1.50 means of conveyance in rural Seniors’ Transportation (CREST) communities and more and more very often a major — operated and managed by services being centralized in larger barrier to successful The Random Age-Friendly centres, isolation is a very real Communities Board — provides a concern. and healthy aging local seniors’ bus service. “Transportation is very often for many older The service is intended for a major barrier to successful and people age 60 or over and for healthy aging for many older adults, especially adults confined to a wheelchair. adults, especially those living in those living in rural Operating with a volunteer base $1.00 rural communities,” says Leo of approximately 40 drivers Bonnell, Chairperson for the communities.” and assistants, the route covers Provincial Advisory Council on the majority of a 20-kilometre $0.852 in Aging and Seniors. radius of the town of Clarenville, Northeast Avalon To help seniors rediscover their freedom including the nearby communities of Adeytown, and regain access to much needed services like Deep Bight, Harcourt, Elliott’s Cove and others. healthcare, five transportation pilot projects for The 16-passenger wheelchair-accessible bus seniors have been launched in the province. operates on weekdays, during daytime business $0.50 “It is hoped the results and best practices hours, ensuring that seniors have access to medical gained from the five provincial Age-Friendly appointments and daily errands, for $2 a ride. ¿ DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN DEC JUN 2006 2007 2007 2008 2008 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2011 2012 2012 2013 2013 2014 Transportation pilots will help our provincial

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 13 Proportion of Owners vs. Renters Housing 2011 CANADA 69% 31% The province’s economic boom has also meant housing boom, but high NL 78% 22% housing costs mean that some are left on the outside looking in. Bruce Pearce NUNATSIAVUT 69% 31%

St. John’s Community LABRADOR 78% 22% Advisory Committee on Homelessness NORTHERN PENINSULA 90% 10%

“No single entity, NOTRE DAME BAY 87% 13% organization, or even BONAVISTA-TRINITY 85% 15% level of government can end homelessness,” CENTRAL 71% 29% says Bruce Pearce of the HUMBER DISTRICT 76% 24% St. John’s Community Advisory Committee on ST. GEORGE’S 73% 27% Homelessness. “It’s not about shelters SOUTH COAST 89% 11% retooling or the housing BURIN PENINSULA 84% 16% sector doing more,” he says. “It’s about prisons not AVALON PENINSULA 88% 12% releasing people without NORTHEAST AVALON 70% 30% a release plan. It’s about child and youth welfare not In every region in this province, the percentage of home owners is equal to or delivering individuals into greater than the Canadian average. (StatCan). the adult system without the necessary bridging supports—this is where we Proportion of People Spending see significant entry points into homelessness.” 30% of income or more on Housing “There are certainly 2011 economic, fiscal, and tax OWNERS RENTERS policies that affect the Habitat NL volunteers working on a home in Paradise. Photo credit: Holly Tobin. 18.5% housing market more CANADA broadly, but there are 40% systemic issues in areas 11.8% Habitat for Humanity NL NL like corrections, child and 39.3% youth welfare, and family 4.5% Breaking the cycle of poverty by making housing more affordable. court where there are NUNATSIAVUT family disputes or family 7.8% abitat for Humanity Newfoundland earning too much to qualify for assistance but never breakdowns,” says Pearce. 7.8% LABRADOR & Labrador is celebrating its 20th enough to qualify for a conventional mortgage,” she “All of these situations mean 13.5% anniversary in the province this year. says. someone is moving on, 10.4% Gail Ryan, the executive director for Habitat for Humanity NL brings volunteers, and someone is needing NORTHERN PENINSULA Habitat for Humanity in the province, organizations, municipalities and corporations to relocate and find new 35.7% Hfeels the need is greater than ever—and not just together to build safe, affordable and modest homes housing.” 7.1% NOTRE DAME BAY for traditional urban areas, but around the province which are sold to our partner families at fair market “It’s been a creation of 39.7% in places where families are value. Habitat NL families many hands, and it takes 9.5% struggling to make ends meet. mortgage their newly-built all those many hands BONAVISTA-TRINITY To date, the organization has “Our families homes at no interest, and require to craft an approach to 42.5% built more than 45 homes for no down payment. In lieu of a the problem. It takes 13.2% CENTRAL low income families around the are caught in the down payment, partner families trust, understanding, and 41.2% province—including St. Anthony, contribute up to 500 hours of respect to bring those silos rental cycle, often 11.8% Lab West, and, soon, Clarenville. “sweat equity,” building their own together.” ¿ HUMBER DISTRICT The rise in economic activity earning too much homes and those of other Habitat 39.2% related to natural resource families, or contributing through 12.6% to qualify for ST. GEORGE’S development has had a huge volunteer work with other groups 52.3% impact on the price of housing, assistance but never in the community. 8.2% and that leaves some people enough to qualify Ryan says that along with their SOUTH COAST slipping between the cracks, says expansion and a new strategic 41.2% Ryan. for a conventional plan, the organization’s goal is to 9.9% “The cost of housing has build 50 new homes in five years. BURIN PENINSULA mortgage.” 35.9% doubled in most areas, and The plan involves developing 13% homeownership and rental rates regional chapters around the AVALON PENINSULA have become largely unaffordable province, led by local volunteer 39% for a lot of families. Salaries have not risen community leaders. “No single entity, 13.8% NORTHEAST AVALON accordingly to keep pace for a lot of working families “Our model of mobilizing the community to organization, or even 39.9% and they find themselves in unacceptable housing make safe, modest and affordable home-ownership level of government arrangements.” a reality for families is breaking the cycle of poverty can end “Our families are caught in the rental cycle, often and providing a stable future,” says Ryan. ¿ In every region in this province, the percentage of home owners is equal to homelessness.” or greater than the Canadian average. Also, home owners are less likely to spend more than 30 per cent of their income on housing than the national average. On the other hand, Newfoundland & Labrador renters are as likely to spend more than 30 per cent as other Canadians. (StatCan)

14 Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 Income Gap Safety Can we ensure that our booming economy benefits everyone? Newfoundland & Labrador has traditionally felt like a place where you can leave your front door unlocked. But in 2014, is this changing? Chief William Funded in part by the Community Foundation of Choices For Youth Newfoundland and Labrador Janes Tessier Park RNC Chief of Police Helping young people with few options move towards employment and stability. Neighbourhood Association According to Statistics In a St. John’s neighbourhood plagued with crime, people Canada, St. John’s has n the common area of the Choices for Youth maintenance, some of the one of the highest crime building there’s a mural with the inscription, “It most important things they are coming together to improve quality of life in their area. rates among the country’s St. John’s is not the position where you are standing, but learn are to believe in their metropolitan centres. which direction you are going.” own abilities in completing a essier Park is a neighbourhood full of brightly-painted But Royal Newfoundland Advantages are few task,” says row houses and duplexes along the steep streets that Constabulary Chief of Iamong Jeannie Piercey’s clients. Piercey. slope toward the downtown core of St. John’s. The area is Police, William Janes, says She’s Program Facilitator of “Some of the most The home to a mix of artists and oil executives, long-time and that statistic doesn’t paint a Choices for Youth’s Jumpstart important things program, short-term residents, families, social housing residents, and complete picture. program. Many of the youth which runs for 13 weeks with ten Tstudents. “The Violent Crime sharing the space are trying to they learn are to participants during each session, However, the downtown St. John’s neighbourhood has also long Severity Index (CSI) showed build their lives upon fractured believe in their requires flexibility and creative been plagued by drug and sex trafficking, violence, and other criminal an increase of 9 per cent foundations, including criminal solutions to meet group and activity. from 2012 to 2013,” says records, mental illness, fetal own abilities in individual needs. This history of violent crime Janes. “This was due to alcohol spectrum disorder, stints completing a task.” It addresses various came to a head in 2013, when a “Our character the St. John’s area having in the sex trade industry, child employment barriers and life local resident was murdered in a three reported homicides in care and pre-natal needs, among challenges, and coordinators home on Tessier Place—allegedly and resolve have 2013 with none reported in other issues. work with participants to secure the victim of a drug deal gone bad. been tested, and the 2012. Incidents of homicide For these youth, trying to start their lives from a placements in school and the workplace, along In response, instead of significantly impact the disadvantaged position, Piercey’s program is hoping with housing, legal assistance, and mental health retreating in fear, the residents residents have risen violent CSI. There have to provide the boost they need. counselling. The sessions are also supported by of Tessier Park reached out to to respond.” historically been one to two The Jumpstart program is a pre-employment three youth mentors who have already completed their neighbours and formed the incidents of homicide in the initiative that prepares youth who are street- the program. Tessier Park Neighbourhood St. John’s area per year.” involved and living in unstable environments to get “The youth involved have a chance to build Association. Janes also noted annual back on track. memories with us that show them they matter,” says “Our character and resolve have been tested,” says organizer Mark decreases in break-and- “While our Jumpstart participants get involved Piercey. “They have things to offer their community Wilson, “and the residents have risen to respond.” entries, violent crimes, and in a variety of activities to develop employable and they have the ability to finish what they set out The group organized community clean-up events, focusing on a motor vehicle thefts. ¿ skills like food safety training, basic cooking, and to do.” ¿ small green space in the neighbourhood that had been a site frequented by intravenous drug users. They also formed a Neighbourhood Watch association and are working to involve more people from the area in neighbourhood activities. Despite the unfortunate circumstances that initially brought the Gap Between Rich & Poor group together, resident and community organizer, Mark Wilson, is All family type median income vs. low-income family median income, 2000-2012, positive about the neighbourhood’s future, and knows there’s a lot of Northeast Avalon and Newfoundland & Labrador work ahead. “Can we all do more? Come walk Livingstone Street and make All family types up your own mind,” he says. “Have we been able to make a concrete Northeast Avalon $51,470 (2012) difference in our neighbourhood? Yes.”¿

$50,000 Newfoundland Northeast $45,000 Crime Rates Number per 100,000 people, 2013 Canada & Labrador Avalon $40,000 All family types Newfoundland Overall 6,268 6,835 7,545 $35,000 & Labrador $45,450 (2012) Violent Crime 1,147 1,424 1,541 Property Crime 3,304 3,646 4,346 $30,000 Low-income families Traffic Violations 407 401 603 Newfoundland Car Theft 217 100 106 $25,000 & Labrador $13,560 (2012) Sexual Assault 76 76 60

$20,000

$15,000 Police Officers Number per 100,000 people, 2013 Low-income families $10,000 Northeast Avalon $12,690 (2012) 248 191 231 2011 2012 2001 2010 2007 2002 2003 2005 2008 2006 2009 2004 2000 The overall crime rate in Newfoundland & Labrador is higher than the national average. The gap between median incomes of all families and low-income families is widening, with high earners’ incomes This is especially true in the St. John’s Metro Area, where the overall rate is 20 per cent increasing at a much faster rate than low earners in all parts of the province, but much more-so in the Northeast higher than the national average. (StatCan) Avalon.(StatCan)

Newfoundland & Labrador’s Vital Signs® 2014 15 Thank You

Acknowledgements Media Partner

Research Sources Media Partner Board of Commisioners of Public TC Media Utilities Elections Canada Funding Partners Elections Newfoundland and Labrador Choices for Youth Environment Canada Crosbie Group Limited FFAW, Unifor Government of Newfoundland and The Leslie Harris Centre of Regional Labrador Policy & Development Memorial University Memorial University Faculty of Newfoundland and Labrador Medicine Department of Education Funding Partners Municipalities NL Statistics Canada Oceanex Telus Community Foundation of Guest Experts Newfoundland & Amanda Bittner Chief William Janes Labrador Scott Lynch Jennifer Guy, Chair Doug May Viki O’Dea, Vice-Chair Shree Mulay John C. Perlin, Treasurer Bruce Pearce William Mahoney, Secretary Travis Perry Doug Chafe, Past Chair Craig Pollett Lisa Browne, Director Caroline Vaughan Faculty of Medicine Jeff Collingwood, Director Kelly Vodden Barry Thomson, Director Reg Winsor Gayle Corcoran, Director Paul McDonald, Director Ainsley Hawthorn, Exec. Director Case Study Subjects King’s Point Pottery Joshua Barrett, CFNL Coordinator Going Off, Growing Strong CREST Bus Project Team MUN Med Gateway Jennifer Guy Tessier Park Neighbourhood Lisa Browne Asscociation Ainsley Hawthorn Habitat for Humanity NL Joshua Barrett Town of Branch Rob Greenwood Indian Bay Ecosystem Corporation Alvin Simms Camp Douwanna Jamie Ward Centre for DIstance Learning and Chris Bergman Innovation Pat Curran Choices For Youth Cathy Newhook St. Anthony Basin Resources Morgan Murray Incorporated Kristie Jameson Dynamic Air Shelters Lauren Power Elling Lien

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VitalSigns Community Foundation of The Leslie Harris Centre for Regional Newfoundland & Labrador Policy and Development Vital Signs is a community check-up conducted by Spencer Hall 1003 community foundations across Canada that measures the Suite 209, 31 Peet Street, vitality of our communities and identifies significant trends St. John's, NL A1B 3W8 Memorial University of Newfoundland in a range of areas critical to quality of life. Vital Signs is St. John's, NL A1C 5S7 coordinated nationally by Community Foundations of Canada. (709) 753-9899 (709) 864-3143 The Vital Signs trademark is used with permission from [email protected] Community Foundations of Canada. www.cfnl.ca [email protected] www.mun.ca/harriscentre