A study done by University of Toronto revealed that about 5.8 million people in Canada experienced some form of food insecurity in 2021; those numbers include 1.4 million children. In Ontario, one in six households (equal to 2.3 million people) were food insecure during the same period. Out of this figure, nearly five percent or over 250,000 households in the province experienced severe food insecurity, which means family members missed meals, reduced their intake of food, or went days without eating due to financial limitations. Researchers say the high rates of food insecurity are persisting and is becoming a major worrisome social issue. They believe that food insecurity is expected to get worse if income is unable to keep up with inflation.
The rising cost of food, fuel and other necessities compels many low-income households to seek social assistance and get food from various food banks. In fact, the Daily Bread Food Bank noted a dramatic increase of food bank use which had tripled from 2019. It was estimated that in Toronto alone, the number of client visits will spike to over 220,000 per month. Food banks across Ontario are now struggling to fill up their empty shelves amid record demand. Advocates are also calling the government to provide more support. However, we know for a fact that the government can not do it alone. We all need each other to help people in need, especially those who are experiencing hunger and food insecurity.
By donating to your nearest food bank, you are giving hope to those who are yearning for it. Let us help our fellowmen harvest hope early this year. To avoid food waste and from food banks rejecting your donations, please refrain from donating items that are past their expiry dates, vitamins or over the counter medications, and home-baked goods.
