Food supplies available for people in need at a local food bank. City News
As food prices continue to climb and food bank visits hit record highs, most Canadians now see food insecurity as a major issue in the upcoming election. A new report shows they want a Prime Minister who will make fighting hunger a priority.
The 2024 Election Report by Food Banks Canada reveals that 84% of Canadians believe hunger should not be a political issue. People from all regions and backgrounds agree that Canada must act now.
The numbers tell a serious story. In March 2024 alone, food banks across Canada had more than two million visits. That’s a 6% jump from last year and a shocking 90% rise since 2019.
In Toronto, the situation is even more alarming. Back in 2020, the Daily Bread Food Bank had around 600,000 visits in a year. In 2024, it received 3.75 million visits. And experts expect that number to go even higher in 2025.
These growing numbers show how deep the problem runs. The report says food insecurity is now top of mind for voters. People want to see real steps taken to end hunger.
“This is a time when we’re thinking about Canada’s future, and federal election candidates are sharing their views on what it means to build a more resilient and compassionate nation,” said Kirstin Beardsley, CEO of Food Banks Canada. “The data is clear that there is strong support for setting the goal of cutting hunger in half by 2030.”
According to the poll, 86% of Canadians support this goal.
Food security also came up in recent political debates. In Thunder Bay, Liberal candidate Mark Powlowski talked about the Nutrition North program. It helps Indigenous and northern communities take control of their food systems.
NDP candidate Joy Wakefield stressed that defending supply management would help protect local farmers. She said, “We have enough food in the world to feed everyone, but we don’t and I echo those comments that it’s concerning.”
In Cambridge, Conservative candidate Eric Duncan said his party plans to tackle food insecurity and high housing costs together. His proposals include removing GST from new homes and cutting the carbon tax entirely.
The report shows Canadians are united in their concern, no matter their region or background. People are looking for leadership that can deliver real solutions.
Beardsley added, “The real catalyst to reducing hunger in Canada is all of us — the voters, making our voices heard. No matter your party, make tackling hunger in Canada your voting priority. This election is about the kind of country we want to be, a Canada where no one goes hungry.”
