Public health units across eastern Ontario are joining forces to address a troubling surge in food insecurity that is straining families and individuals across the region.
New data reveals that nearly one in four households in eastern Ontario faced food insecurity in 2023, up from 16 per cent the previous year. Food insecurity, defined as inadequate or insecure access to food due to financial constraints, has been linked to negative physical and mental health outcomes and is increasing the burden on healthcare systems.
« This is not about budgeting or a lack of food skills, » stated the Eastern Ontario Health Unit in a press release, attributing the problem to a lack of adequate income. « Poverty is the root cause, and income-based solutions are needed to ensure people can afford life’s essentials. »
A recent analysis of food and rent costs highlights the severity of the issue. For instance, individuals receiving Ontario Works in eastern Ontario face monthly deficits ranging from $263 to $795 after paying for food and housing. Other low-income households face similar financial gaps after covering basic expenses such as utilities, transportation, and medications.
Health officials are calling for systemic changes, including indexing social assistance rates to inflation, reassessing income support programs, expanding access to government subsidies, and improving employment standards to ensure livable wages.
The collaboration involves multiple public health units, including the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, South East Health Unit, KFL&A Public Health, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, and Ottawa Public Health.
For more information on food insecurity and potential solutions, visit proof.utoronto.ca.
