September is Hunger Action Month, a time when communities across Ontario come together to raise awareness and take action against food insecurity. As a proud member of Feed Ontario, the Ottawa Food Bank is joining in this crucial initiative, which focuses on four impactful themes: Educate, Advocate, Volunteer, and Donate.
With food insecurity on the rise in Ottawa, the need for support has never been greater. In Ottawa, 1 in 7 rely on food programs to put meals on the table. But together, we can make a difference. Here’s how you can get involved this Hunger Action Month:
Understanding food insecurity means looking beyond empty shelves—it’s about addressing the systems that fail to support people when they need it most. In Ottawa, food insecurity has surged, becoming an alarming and persistent reality. Our Ottawa Hunger Report explored the factors driving this crisis, including inadequate social assistance, unaffordable housing, and unstable employment. We uncovered how these challenges have made record-high food bank use the ‘new normal’ in our city and offered clear recommendations for building a future where everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food.
By learning about these systemic issues, you can become part of the solution. Share what you’ve discovered with your community—whether it’s in conversations with friends, family, or on social media. Together, we can raise awareness about food insecurity and push for the changes needed to create a stronger, more resilient safety net for all.
Advocacy is a powerful tool in the fight against hunger. This September, you can make a difference by adding your voice to the call for change. Feed Ontario’s digital petition invites you to demand bold action from the Ontario government on poverty.
Throughout the month, food bank visitors are sharing their stories of how the struggle to afford basic needs affects their lives. These stories will be sent to representatives at Queen’s Park and shared with Ontarians. You can join this call for action by signing the petition, which urges the government to:
- Improve social assistance by increasing rates for Ontario Works and ODSP
- Invest in affordable housing by building more social and transitional housing
- Build a stronger workforce by enhancing labor protections and enforcement for all workers
Volunteers are the heartbeat of food banks across Ottawa, ensuring food is distributed, donations are organized, and operations run smoothly. And it’s not just the Ottawa Food Bank that needs volunteers—we’re part of a network of member agencies and food programs across the city. This Hunger Action Month, consider lending your time by volunteering at a food bank or food program in your community.
Not sure where to go? Use our Find Food Look-Up Tool to locate your nearest food bank and learn more about their volunteer opportunities.
Donations are essential to ensuring that we can continue to provide nutritious food to those who need it most. This month, consider making a one-time gift or becoming a monthly donor. Even a small contribution can make a big difference!
Not sure where to start? You can also organize a food drive in your neighborhood, workplace, or school. Non-perishable food items are always needed, and your collective efforts will help keep our shelves stocked throughout the year.
As we reflect on the importance of Hunger Action Month, let’s remember that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the fight against food insecurity. Together, we can create a community where everyone has access to the food they need.
