March 2025 pro bono availability: free employment contract review based on living wage
- Rika Sawatsky
- Feb 28
- 1 min read

A new month means another 5 spots are opened up for my pro bono service: if you're offered less than a living wage, I'll review your employment contract for free. My Reviewer package is free for the first 5 eligible clients who sign up.
A living wage reflects what people need to earn to cover the actual costs of living in their community. It factors in the costs of food, clothing, shelter, childcare, transportation, medical expenses, recreation, and a modest vacation. This is a conservative, bare bones budget without the extras many Canadians take for granted, like retirement savings, debt repayment, home ownership, RESPs, and anything beyond the smallest emergency fund.
The living wage calculation is based on the needs of two-parent families with young children, but Living Wage Canada reports that hte rate is not significantly different for individuals without depends or a spouse.
Take a look at the chart at the top of this page. The living wage is significantly higher than the minimum wage--anywhere between 19% and 86% higher depending on your city.
Why I'm offering free employment contract review:
Upwards of a third of workers earn less than a living wage in Canada.
Knowing your contract is a fundamental part of workplace justice.
Even in standard-form contracts, there are often ways to find more value.
Find your local living wage at Living Wage Canada or the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives and contact me to apply.
I'd love to work with you!
(related services: employment contract review)