I have recently started in a new position with the Saint John Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative and wanted to share a little about my work and invite your feedback and suggestions. The Saint John Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative began about three years ago when a group of approximately 120 members of the business community decided to become more actively involved in issues related to poverty in their community. Working groups were formed and through partnerships in the community they were successful in learning a great deal about poverty, its determinants and implementing initiatives directed at reducing poverty. Last year, in an effort to focus, a study was completed on behalf of the business community. The study identified the single parent family as a primary opportunity for change, with the business community becoming further energized. The recommendations range from the need for changes in public policy to the need for increased support for specific community initiatives. My role is to now work with the business community and community partners to move the recommendations forward. I am still at the learning stage and would be interested in hearing from anyone who is aware of community groups who have taken an approach which has included business leaders as partners. As well, I realize that there is a huge amount of information available regarding the relationship between poverty and health and I am seeking contacts, information, research, etc., from both a community and academic perspective, about this issue. It is an exciting opportunity for change and I welcome your comments and suggestions. Anne Marie Maloney e-mail: [log in to unmask]