WESTERBY -- A society, with a strong foundation, benefits even those who never need to stand on it

On Tuesday (Jan 6^th) the Fraser Institute released a new report entitled: “BC government spending reaches highest level on record at $13,711 per person in 2025 (inflation-adjusted)”

Now only they can verify my wondering, but to me the article gives the impression that the provincial government is spending too much on taxpayers ... and that it’s bad.

Personally, I  would rather the government spend my money on me, than on a subsidy for big oil or something similar.

"From a purely financial standpoint, prevention costs less than crisis response" ~~ Teri Westerby

When people are lifted up through things like income supports, housing programs, childcare, healthcare, and education, the benefits don’t stop with the people receiving the support. They ripple outward and shape the entire community.

When fewer people are struggling just to survive, communities are safer. Crime goes down, emergency services aren’t overwhelmed, and public spaces feel more stable and welcoming. That benefits everyone who lives, works, and raises families there, whether they’ve ever accessed a program or not.

When people have money to meet basic needs, they spend it locally. That keeps small businesses open, supports jobs, and strengthens local economies. Social supports don’t disappear into a void, they circulate through grocery stores, landlords, childcare providers, tradespeople, and service workers.

Health outcomes improve too. People with stable housing, food, and income are healthier, both physically and mentally. That means fewer ER visits, less strain on hospitals, and lower healthcare costs overall, including for people with private insurance. 

Schools work better when kids aren’t hungry or stressed by instability at home. Classrooms are calmer, learning improves, and teachers can focus on education instead of crisis management. Even families who don’t rely on supports benefit from stronger school environments.

From a purely financial standpoint, prevention costs less than crisis response. It’s cheaper to prevent homelessness than to manage it. It’s cheaper to fund mental health care than incarceration. It’s cheaper to support families early than to pay later through healthcare, policing, and emergency systems. That saves public money over time.

There’s also a long-term effect. Kids who grow up with stability are healthier adults, more likely to work, contribute, and need fewer supports later. That strengthens the future workforce and tax base for everyone.

At the community level, societies with strong social supports have higher trust, less polarization, and more resilience during economic downturns or emergencies. People feel safer, more connected, and less fearful of falling through the cracks.

So, this isn’t about “paying for other people.” It’s about building systems that make communities safer, healthier, more affordable, and more stable for everyone. 

A society, with a strong foundation, benefits even those who never need to stand on it. 

 

Mr. Teri Westerby is a Political Educator, Coming Out Coach, and Governance Strategist focused on turning civic confusion into clarity.