Why Paying a Living Wage Matters at thinkBright Homes Ltd.

In this short blog, Meredith Hamstead, CEO at thinkBright Homes Ltd. explains why they became a Living Wage Employer, and the benefits they’ve found from being part of the program.

We have a team of 5 core staff and lots of sub-trades that we consider to be an integral part of the thinkBright Team – suppliers, trades, cleaners, and more.

We have been a Living Wage Employer since 2023. Becoming a Living Wage Employer was important to us to demonstrate ethical leadership. thinkBright is part of our community – our business supports and is supported by that community. Every member of our team, internal and external, is entitled to a living wage, at minimum, in addition to a safe work environment, free from discrimination and harassment. Being a Living Wage Employer is a reflection of our core values, and encourages other employers to step up as well.

Since becoming a Living Wage Employer, we’ve noticed real, positive changes in our workplace. Paying a fair living wage must not be an option as an employer – our crews and trades work hard for us, not just because we expect them to, but because they are appropriately and fairly compensated for their skills, effort, and care for outcomes.

Paying a Living Wage doesn’t just benefit our team, it strengthens the local economy and helps families thrive. We’re proud to be part of a movement that’s making a difference across the Columbia Valley.

We encourage others to join us in becoming Living Wage Employers. Together, we can create a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone.

Certifying as a Living Wage Employer is a voluntary commitment employers make to invest in their communities and local economies. There are now over 450 Living Wage Employers across BC.

The living wage is the hourly amount someone needs to earn to pay for basic essentials like food and rent, it doesn’t include paying off debt or saving for retirement. The Living Wage for the Columbia Valley is now $23.35 an hour.

Find out more about thinkBright Homes Ltd. on their website: www.thinkbright.ca