A coalition of anti-poverty groups, collectively known as the 25 in 5 Network for Poverty Reduction, says the Ontario government's attempts to reduce poverty are taking too narrow a focus.

During the last year's provincial election campaign, the Liberals decided to focus on reducing child poverty.

But anti-poverty activists say that excludes low-income people who need assistance. Jacquie Maund, co-ordinator for the anti-poverty group Campaign 2000, says "one in every 10 people in this province live in poverty" and for that reason the government's approach has to be much broader than just attacking child poverty.

Maund released recommendations from province-wide consultations that were held this fall.

"Our economy has been growing for over 10 years, yet Ontario's poverty rate remains stubbornly high at 10 per cent. If there's a downturn coming, it's more important than ever for governments to invest in poverty reduction now when it can make a real difference for people facing difficult times ahead," said Maund in a statement.

The report says the government should increase the minimum wage to $11 per hour, introduce a tax credit for the working poor, increase social assistance rates and change the Ontario Works program so that people don't have to give up all assets in order to qualify for assistance.

"Ontarians have spoken loud and clear: minor tweaks to programs won't cut it when it comes to serious change against poverty. It's time for a bold, multi-year plan that invests significant dollars to cut poverty by 25 per cent in five years and by 50 per cent in the next decade," said Mehroon Kassam in a news release.

Kassam, a doctor from Cornwall as well as a member of the Social Planning Network of Ontario, says the recommendations would help everyone, not just the poor with children.

"The plan should include targeted measures to address the higher than average level of poverty faced by aboriginal people, racialized minorities, single mothers and people with disabilities," said Kassam.

Campaign 2000 hasn't put a figure on how much its recommendations would cost.