Public health units across Southwestern Ontario are raising concerns as more families struggle to afford food and other basic needs.
New data shows that one in four households in the region experienced food insecurity in 2024. This means they did not always have enough money to buy the food they needed. Public health officials say rising housing costs and higher living expenses are forcing many people to choose between paying rent and buying groceries.
Health experts say food insecurity can lead to poor physical and mental health, increase the risk of chronic illnesses, and put more pressure on the healthcare system. For children, not having enough healthy food can affect learning, memory, mood, and success at school.
Public health units say the problem is not caused by poor budgeting, but by low incomes. They point to people receiving Ontario Works, saying many cannot afford both food and rent each month.
Health officials are calling on the provincial government to increase social assistance rates, improve income supports for low- and moderate-income households, and help reduce the cost of housing and other essential living expenses.
Public health units are encouraging residents to learn more about food insecurity, speak with elected officials about income-based solutions, and continue supporting local community organizations, while recognizing that food banks alone cannot solve the problem.
