Advocacy & Issues 05/14/2025 New data from Statistics Canada shows: In 2024, a quarter of Canada’s population—almost 10 million people—struggled to afford enough food. This data, from the Canadian Income Survey (CIS) 2023, is a new record high. It marks a substantial 15% increase, breaking last year’s record rate, and paints a stark picture of a country where food insecurity is rapidly becoming a defining issue. But as policymakers and the public grapple with this reality, it's critical to understand that food insecurity isn’t simply about food. It’s a symptom of deeper economic challenges. The numbers behind the crisis The data from Statistics Canada shows a sharp nationwide surge in food insecurity, with increases in every province except Manitoba and Prince Edward Island. The Atlantic provinces and Prairie regions were hit particularly hard: Newfoundland & Labrador: 30% (up from 26%) Alberta: 31% (up from 27%) Saskatchewan: 31% (up from 28%) Ontario: 26% (up from 25%) Quebec: 20% (up from 16%, and defying its usual resilience). This upward trend cut across all family types, with food insecurity affecting: 52% of women-led single-parent households 32% of adults living alone 29% of couples with children 13% of seniors. Often seen as a more stable demographic, even this group saw rising food insecurity, particularly seniors living alone (14%). Demographically, the food insecurity burden was heavier on: Black people: 47% Indigenous people living off-reserve: 40% Filipino people: 37% Children: 33% Newcomers (immigrated in the last 5 years): 35%. With the burden of food insecurity falling disproportionately on many equity-seeking groups, it's likely that food insecurity has risen for other equity-seeking groups whose experiences aren't captured by the Canadian Income Survey, such as Indigenous people living on reserves, people in remote areas, and 2SLGBTQ+ people also experience higher food insecurity. Statistics Canada also often delays releasing food insecurity estimates for people with disabilities, but we know this demographic experiences even greater challenges in accessing food. Overall, the picture is clear: Food insecurity is escalating across nearly every community in Canada. What’s driving the rise in food insecurity? The current food insecurity crisis is deeply intertwined with broader economic conditions that are undermining people’s ability to afford basic necessities: High prices of basic goods The cost of food, groceries, energy, and other necessities has soared across Canada in recent years. Wage growth hasn’t kept pace with inflation, meaning households now spend a larger proportion of their income on essentials. Stagnant wages and precarious employment While employment levels have been relatively stable, many people work in precarious jobs with little to no benefits, low pay, and irregular hours. This is especially true for immigrants and racialized groups, who disproportionately work in low-wage sectors. Declining public social safety nets The new data highlights a decline in government transfers—a critical buffer that helps reduce poverty and cushion households during economic downturns. Cuts or inadequate increases to programs like the Canada Child Benefit and provincial assistance have left many families more exposed to food insecurity. Economic challenges and housing crisis Rising interest rates, a cooling job market, and ongoing housing affordability issues have compounded the strain on household finances. Rent and mortgage costs are eating into budgets, leaving less for food and other necessities. Systemic inequities Equity-seeking groups are more impacted by poverty and food insecurity due to wealth and power disparities rooted in colonialism, discrimination, and other systemic oppressions. These groups include Indigenous people, Black people, racialized people, and women-led households, as well as people with disabilities—even when they work full-time. What should be done: Three calls to action Food insecurity in Canada isn’t caused by a lack of food—it’s driven by poverty. Millions can’t afford the ample food that’s available. Solving this crisis requires systemic change to address low incomes and inequality. While food banks offer relief, they are temporary fixes, not lasting solutions. The evidence is clear: Only policies that raise individual and household incomes can significantly reduce food insecurity. But during the recent federal election, meaningful commitments to income supports for people facing poverty and food insecurity were sidelined. Instead, party leaders focused on tax cuts that don’t help the most vulnerable. These tax cuts also reduce public revenue—money that could strengthen vital social safety net programs. Therefore, we call on the government to: Establish a clear and measurable target to reduce food insecurity by 50% by the year 2030. A clear target will drive coordinated action, prioritize accountability, and focus resources where they’re most needed. The target should be informed by experts and people with lived experiences to shape effective, equitable solutions. Improve and create income support programs to ensure all individuals and households can afford basic necessities, with a focus on racial equity. Our key proposals include creating a Groceries and Essentials Benefit and Canada Working-Age Supplement, expanding the Canada Disability Benefit, and reforming Employment Insurance. These solutions would provide more inclusive, stable, and effective support to individuals and families who are most vulnerable to poverty and food insecurity. Collaborate with Indigenous Nations to restore Indigenous peoples’ self-determination and control over their traditional food systems. This includes protecting rights to land-based foods, hunting, fishing, and gathering, and addressing the lasting impacts of colonial policies. Conclusion: A crisis demanding bold policy choices Canada is at a crossroads. This latest data lays bare a truth that too many communities already know firsthand: Food insecurity is not about food. It is about income, inequality, and inadequate systems of support. We cannot solve this crisis with piecemeal programs or short-term fixes. What is needed is a national commitment to economic justice—a shift in policy that centers the dignity and rights of people. If nearly 10 million people in a wealthy country like Canada can’t afford food, then the system isn’t broken. It’s working exactly as designed—for some, but not for all. The path forward is clear. What remains is the political will to chart it. For more statistics and trends on food insecurity and poverty from Statistics Canada’s new report, read our partners’ briefing note.