The Niagara Poverty Reduction Network is pleased to announce that NatureKast has become a certified living wage employer at the Champion level.

The name NatureKast is synonymous with beautiful outdoor kitchens and they are serious about maintaining that legacy. NatureKast revolutionized the industry with 100% weatherproof cabinetry, panels, trim and more with the look and feel of real wood. Innovative cabinets are available for most of the big names in outdoor grills, cooktops, sinks and appliances. St. Catharines-based NatureKast currently employs 44 full time staff.

“Since its beginnings, NatureKast has always been committed to an inclusive workplace that provides job stability. Becoming a certified living wage employer is a testament of our commitment to making a long-term investment in our staff and community. The Ontario Living Wage Program gives NatureKast the opportunity to hold itself accountable as a responsible employer – recognizing the true value of our employees and their real cost of living,” says James van den Brink, Financial Controller, NatureKast.

“We’re pleased to see local employers recognizing the value and benefits of paying at least a living wage. Paying a living wage is direct action to address poverty, and helps people afford the cost of living,” says Aidan Johnson, Chair, Niagara Poverty Reduction Network.

A living wage reflects what earners need to be paid based on the actual costs of living and being included in the community. A living wage is not the same as the legislated minimum wage. It is a voluntary commitment that employers can make to compensate directly-employed and contract-employed full-time and part-time workers. The current living wage for Niagara region has been calculated to be $18.12/hour. If an employer’s total compensation package includes benefits such as dental and prescription drugs, the living wage can be lowered by at least $1.00/hour.

Learn more about Niagara’s living wage at www.wipeoutpoverty.ca. Niagara-area employers interested in becoming living wage certified can contact the Ontario Living Wage Network for more information at www.ontariolivingwage.ca

The Niagara Poverty Reduction Network is a collective of over 30 agencies and individuals working to wipe out poverty in Niagara through education, collaboration, and advocacy to address poverty’s root causes.