Urgent Appeal: Addressing the Alarming Food Insecurity Crisis Across Canada

As the holiday season approaches, a time traditionally marked by abundance and generosity, we are confronted with a stark and distressing reality: a significant increase in food insecurity across Canada. Food banks nationwide are experiencing unprecedented demand, coupled with a concerning decline in donations, says Pastor Brian Markle.
Escalating Demand and Strained Resources
Recent reports reveal a dramatic surge in food bank usage:
The Daily Bread Food Bank in Toronto recorded 3.49 million client visits between April 2023 and March 2024, nearly one million more than the previous year and a staggering 273% increase since pre-pandemic levels.
The Ottawa Food Bank has seen a 22% rise in client visits over the past 12 months, marking the highest demand in its history.
“These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real people—families and individuals—who are struggling to put food on the table,” states Pastor Brian Markle. “We must act with urgency to address this growing crisis.”
Declining Donations Amid Rising Need
Despite the escalating demand, food banks are grappling with dwindling resources:
The Ottawa Food Bank reports that community generosity funds 98% of its operations, with only 2% coming from government support.
In Toronto, the Daily Bread Food Bank notes that about one in ten residents now rely on food banks, underscoring the critical need for sustained community support.
“The imbalance between rising need and declining donations highlights the fragility of our food bank systems,” states Pastor Brian Markle. “We cannot allow these vital services to collapse under the weight of demand.”
A Call to Action, - Pastor Brian Markle.
In light of this crisis, I urge all Canadians to take immediate action:
Donate Non-Perishable Food Items: Contribute canned goods, dry foods, and other non-perishable items to your local food banks.
Provide Financial Support: Monetary donations enable food banks to purchase fresh produce and other essential items, ensuring a balanced diet for those in need.
Volunteer Your Time: Offer your time to assist in sorting donations, preparing food hampers, or distributing food to those in need.
“Our collective efforts can bring relief to countless families this Christmas,” states Pastor Brian Markle. “Every act of generosity, no matter how small, helps restore hope to those in need.”
How to Help
Here are some organizations where your contributions can make a significant impact:
Ottawa Food Bank
Donate: ottawafoodbank.ca/donate
Volunteer: ottawafoodbank.ca/volunteer
Daily Bread Food Bank (Toronto)
Donate: dailybread.ca/donate
Volunteer: dailybread.ca/volunteer
Food Banks Canada
Donate: foodbankscanada.ca/donate
Find a Local Food Bank: foodbankscanada.ca/utility-pages/find-a-food-bank.aspx
Your support is crucial in ensuring that no Canadian goes hungry during this festive season. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those who need it most, says Pastor Brian Markle.