Rob Ford has it right on social programs — almost

In the wake of last week’s senseless tragedy on Danzig Street, Toronto has been looking for answers.

In addition to the standard responses calling for more police funding and tougher prison sentences, community groups and some politicians have pointed to the need for more community support.

They want more funding for outreach programs in the areas most impacted by gun violence.

Mayor Rob Ford doesn’t much like this kind of talk. He’s been relentless in his response to questions about social programs this week, always returning to the same sound bite: “The best social program is a job.”

And here’s the thing: he’s not wrong.

Countless studies have shown that unemployment and poverty are major factors that lead to increased violent crime. A report on the risk factors for gang violence endorsed by the United States Department of Justice noted that “employment was associated with a general reduction in youths’ criminal activity.” In that sense, the mayor’s equation holds: more jobs equals less crime.

But let’s extend the logic further. The conditions for employment don’t just appear in a dramatic puff of smoke. What does creating jobs in today’s economy actually take?

First, it takes infrastructure. Lack of mobility is a huge factor affecting low-income people in their ability to find and hold well-paying jobs. If you look at this city’s transit system in relation to the 13 priority neighbourhoods, it’s obvious that most of those areas are poorly served by transit.

Beyond that, look to childcare. Even people with decent pay cheques groan about the cost of daycare spaces in this city, and funding for subsidized spots is under constant threat. Single parents can’t work if they can’t find someone to look after their children.

Then there’s education. In the past, medium-wage jobs that didn’t require specialized training could be created by opening a factory or two. We don’t see many factories in Toronto these days. The new jobs being created often require more than a high school diploma. Employers are looking for applicants with post-secondary training, which doesn’t come cheap.

There’s more to consider. Look to recreation programs that keep youth busy and engaged. Build affordable housing that doesn’t have holes in the walls. Foster a business environment that doesn’t overtax on retail spaces and provides pathways to legitimate entrepreneurship. Create cultural incentives to spur creativity and identify talent. Be proactive.

Last week, Ford derisively referred to outreach efforts as “hug-a-thug programs.” He’s way off base. This isn’t about throwing a bunch of money at the problem. Instead, it’s about identifying barriers and investing in improvements.

The mayor almost has it right when he says the best social program is a job. But he’s skipping a step. The best social programs are the ones that help people get jobs.