Thousands of people are expected to converge on the Ontario legislature Wednesday for an anti-poverty protest.

Organizers say they want to draw attention to poverty issues, saying there has been little debate on the matter in the election campaign.

Protestors will also be calling for a 40-per-cent increase in welfare rates, a higher minimum wage and more affordable and accessible public housing.

Marches will be held across Toronto, with a rally at the legislature at 2 p.m.

Members of student groups, unions, social agencies and other organizations are expected to take part.