Economic Justice Leaders Awarded Atkinson Fellowship Extensions

Toronto, December 18 2006 - Roy Romanow and Cathy Crowe's Atkinson Economic Justice Fellowships have been renewed in recognition of their leadership to promote social and economic justice in Canada.  The Fellowships, sponsored by the Atkinson Charitable Foundation, provide community leaders with support to continue to think and act for a more just and healthier future for all Canadians.

"We are very proud to count on Mr. Romanow as an ambassador of Atkinson values. His exceptional contributions to keeping single-tier health care reform moving forward, his leadership for the development of the Canadian Index of Wellbeing and in engaging Canadians about how we can shape a more progressive future for our country, reflect the kind of work that our Founder, Joseph E. Atkinson believed in," said Charles Pascal, Executive Director of the Atkinson Charitable Foundation.

"Cathy Crowe's uncompromising commitment and ground-level connection with those who are directly impacted by homelessness causes the Canadian public and policy makers stand up and listen.   We are proud to stand behind this relentless and inspiring leader as we seek solutions for our housing and homelessness crisis," said Peter A. Armstrong, President of the Board of Trustees of the Atkinson Charitable Foundation.

Atkinson Fellowships vary in amount and can provide resources of up to $100,000 per year for expenses for a period of three years. A "tap on the shoulder" is the method for selection. Applications are not accepted.  Fellows engage in a range of activities including policy research and writing, public engagement and education, and building of partnerships and coalitions.

"As Armine Yalnizyan, the first Atkinson fellow, concludes her Fellowship, we celebrate her leadership in the area of health policy and in raising the profile about the importance of income inequality and the determinants of health.  In her new role as Research Director of the Community Social Planning Council of Toronto, Armine will continue to be a trusted partner and friend of the Foundation's," added Pascal.

The Atkinson Charitable Foundation, a private Canadian foundation established in 1942 seeks to promote social and economic justice in the tradition of its founder, former Star Publisher Joseph E Atkinson.

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For more information:

Charles Pascal, Executive Director of the Atkinson Charitable Foundation.

416-869-4022