This report presents a comprehensive profile of poverty in Canada as of 1996, analyzing its prevalence, characteristics, and the demographic groups most affected. Drawing on data from the National Council of Welfare, it aims to provide a detailed statistical overview and identify key trends in poverty over the preceding years. The analysis likely examines various measures of poverty and their implications for social policy.

This report is likely regarded as a key statistical resource for understanding the socio-economic landscape of Canada in the mid-1990s. Its focus on detailed data and demographic analysis suggests it serves as a foundational document for researchers, policymakers, and social advocates interested in poverty reduction strategies. The authority perspective would emphasize its role in providing empirical evidence to inform public discourse and policy development.