Why Global Poverty.
Global poverty isn’t a distant issue. It shapes lives every day — determining whether someone has access to education, healthcare, or the chance to earn a stable income.
For millions of people, the circumstances of their birth decide their future before they’ve had a chance to choose it. Women, in particular, face some of the greatest barriers, often excluded from financial systems, training opportunities, and the resources needed to move forward.
But poverty is not permanent. Opportunity can change everything.
Your Steps Create Opportunity
When people gain access to small business loans, training, and support, they can build income, strengthen their families, and create lasting change in their communities.
That’s what Walking People Out of Poverty is all about. Every kilometer walked and every dollar raised helps someone take their next step toward independence, resilience, and hope.
Walking People Out of Poverty is a national campaign of Opportunity International Canada. For over 27 years, Opportunity has been engaging Canadians in the fight against poverty through sustainable solutions that help men and women build better lives for themselves and their families.
The Need is Urgent
- Nearly 700 million people live in extreme poverty today, surviving on less than $2.15 per day
- About 1 in 10 people worldwide still lives in extreme poverty
- Women aged 25–34 are 25% more likely than men to live in extreme poverty
- Ultra-poverty is the most severe form of poverty, where families cannot meet basic needs like food, shelter, or clothing.
- 1.1 billion people live in ultra-poverty, lacking essentials such as electricity, clean water, sanitation, and education.
CLIENT STORIES
Meet lives leaving poverty behind, for good.
Christiana, Ghana
Christiana’s story is one of remarkable resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite growing up in extreme poverty and facing challenges, she found the determination to improve her life and her children’s futures. With the help of a microloan, Christiana began selling small items. With her hardwork and determination, she has transformed her business from a humble roadside table to a thriving market shop.
Anyeli, Colombia
Anyeli’s pursuit of a brighter future in Venezuela took an unexpected turn with motherhood and her husband’s involvement in criminal activities. Concerned for her family’s safety, she returned to Colombia, where she encountered Agape’s Graduation Program on Lago Street. Initially reserved, Anyeli embraced the program’s training, gradually building confidence and knowledge to create a better life for her family.
Senayda, Honduras
Senayda and her husband earned an income by renting vehicles for their taxi service from others, but they dreamed of owning their own. She sought loans from traditional banking providers but was denied. Then, one day her life took a pivotal turn when she was introduced to IDH, our implementing partner in Honduras.