September is Hunger Action Month, an annual campaign led by Feed Ontario to highlight food insecurity across the province and encourage meaningful action at all levels of our communities – from individuals to governments. The Ottawa Food Bank and 71 member agencies are marking Hunger Action Month by renewing our call for the City of Ottawa to declare a food insecurity emergency.
Together with Ottawa residents, we have asked City Council and the Mayor to declare a food insecurity emergency. This formal declaration would:
- Affirm the City’s commitment to working alongside the Ottawa Food Bank and Ottawa’s food security sector to advocate for stronger provincial policies and programs that support food security.
- Signal to the province that addressing food security is a priority, recognized by the nation’s capital.
- Create accountability for the City of Ottawa to factor food security into future policy and program decisions.
Eight cities and counting have made declarations, four of which are in Eastern Ontario: Kingston, Smiths Falls, Hawkesbury, and Brockville. Ottawa has the opportunity to join this collective movement, so that the province can hear us loud and clear.
Why Provincial Support Matters
While municipal governments have their own poverty reduction strategies and provide funding for some social services, provincial governments are responsible for social assistance, affordable housing, employment programs, and other systems that directly influence food security. Currently, 39% of food program users rely primarily on social assistance. Strengthening these supports can reduce the need for emergency food programs. As the province develops its 2026 to 2030 Poverty Reduction Strategy, it should prioritize the systemic issues that contribute to food insecurity.
Ottawa Public Health’s Nutritious Food Basket monitors the cost of eating well in our city. In 2024, it was reported that a family of four would need $1,244 per month to afford healthy food. For households relying on Ontario Works, the Ontario Disability Support Program, or minimum wage, this cost combined with rent results in a monthly deficit. These families are forced to choose between food, housing, childcare, healthcare, and other basic needs. The province has the ability to change this.
When 1 in 4 families in Ottawa cannot afford to put food on the table, every measure possible should be taken to tackle the root causes of food insecurity. The City of Ottawa can take the first step by making this declaration.
Take Action Now!
Since our public campaign for a declaration first began last year, nearly 700 supporters have written to their City Councillor and the Mayor demanding action. As we renew our ask, we invite you to write or follow up with your City Councillor and the Mayor by sending a new letter using our 1-minute form or by giving them a call using our helpful guide. Thank you for sharing in our mission to end food insecurity!
Other Ways to Participate in Hunger Action Month
Hunger Action Month is a time to take action and support your community. Here’s how you can help:
- Educate: Learn more about hunger in Ottawa or try Feed Ontario’s Fork in the Road tool to understand the difficult decisions people face when living on a low income.
- Advocate: In addition to the two resources above, read Feed Ontario’s provincial policy recommendations or sign their petition to tell the provincial government that it’s time to take action to reduce hunger and poverty.
- Volunteer: Consider lending your time by volunteering at a food bank or food program in your community. Use our Find Food Look-Up Tool to locate your nearest food bank and learn more about their volunteer opportunities.
- Donate: This month, consider making a one-time gift or becoming a monthly donor. Even a small contribution can make a big difference! You can also organize a food drive in your neighbourhood, workplace, or school. Non-perishable food items are always needed, and your collective efforts will help keep our shelves stocked throughout the year.
Recent Comments