Mechefske started her own natural skin care products business with the income she was receiving through the program. The cancellation eliminated her ability to fund the business and pay down the debt she accumulated to purchase materials.

To make matters worse, Mechefske says she was actively involved in recruiting others in her community to sign up for the program.

“I convinced a lot of people that this would better their lives, that’s one of the reasons I’m so passionate about fighting this. It wasn’t just me who got hurt, everybody I encouraged to sign up got hurt too,” added Mechefske.

Many, like Bowman, had signed up for the program in the hopes of gaining dignity, hope and “financial stability.”

Prior to participating in the pilot, Bowman was receiving Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) benefits. She has since returned to ODSP and receives about $700 per month, half of what she was receiving under the pilot.

“The Basic Income Pilot allowed me to help care for my grandchildren. I could travel to my daughter’s home to spend the weekend, bring groceries, and have a family meal. I was able to contribute to her dinner table, I wasn’t taking from my grandchildren. Now I feel like I’m a burden,” admitted Bowman.

Organizations who advocate on behalf of Canadians living with poverty and income insecurity are excited the plaintiffs are taking this next step in the legal process and hope the end result is nationwide progress toward a level of financial security for everyone.

“There is an incredible amount of evidence which shows the benefits of a basic income program,” points out Sheila Regehr, Basic Income Network Canada chair. “If everyone has enough money to put food on the table, a roof over their heads, maintain their dignity, and be a part of the economy, we are all better able to manage the other challenges that arise in our lives.”

Subject to any appeals, the class action will now move onto the second stage, which is the common issue trial.

“This is where we ask the court to decide the legal issues that were certified. In this case, that means the court will determine, among other things, whether or not there was a binding contract between the government and all class members, such that the government owes damages for breaching the contract,” explained Stephen Moreau, a partner at Cavalluzzo LLP and lead counsel for the plaintiffs.

“This is a group of very vulnerable people who deserve the right to have their voices heard.”

More information can be found at cavalluzzo.com/basicincomeclassaction.