KAWARTHA LAKES-More and more senior citizens are turning to food banks to help keep their cupboards stocked according to a study just released by Food Banks Canada.
Their annual Hunger Count Report documenting food bank usage in Canada is a cross-sectional, census survey of most food bank agencies, organizations and programs, within and outside of the Food Banks Canada Network including the Kawartha Lakes Food Source.(KLFS)
In the City of Kawartha Lakes the use of food banks by all demographics was up 30% in October according to Kawartha Lakes Food Source. This goes against the trend. Across Canada bank use has stabilized, with the number of visits in 2019 approximately the same as those in 2018.
The percentage of children accessing food banks is declining according to the Hunger Count but the numbers are still high. Children under 18 represent 34.1% of the food bank population, but only make up 19.4% of Canada’s general population. In the Kawartha Lakes, children under 18 represent 31% of the food bank population, but only make up approximately 18% of our general population according to KLFS.
The record high rate of food bank usage by single person households – in particular people with disabilities and seniors who are on fixed incomes and face additional challenges to finding and maintaining employment is particularly concerning for Kawartha Lakes Food Source. “Since 2016, the rate of increase of those ages 65 and older has been a staggering 29.82%. In comparison, the rate of increase for those aged 31-44 was the second highest, at just 3.30%.” says Jessica Topfer, KPFS.
The Kawartha Lakes Food Source says it stands with the following recommendations made by Food Banks Canada. First, develop a National Strategy on Early Learning and Childcare with tangible targets and goals. Secondly, make single, low-income adults a priority consideration for all future poverty reduction policy measures. Third, immediately implement the Canada housing benefit so that Canadians struggling to afford their rent can access this important rental support while the rest of the National Housing Strategy takes effect. Fourth, develop pilot projects towards a basic income for all Canadians. Lastly, create a new program to support ill and unemployed Canadians whose temporary employment insurance or disability benefits are about to run out, as well as develop new mental health measures.
“It has been a tough year for many who struggle with hunger, particularly in the Kawartha Lakes with the cancelation of the basic income pilot project, and we are fearful of what is ahead. However, communities like ours can grow stronger as we solve the challenges we face. To reduce poverty and hunger at home, and across the country, we need a combination of a strong economy and smart social policy.” Topfer explains.
For more information, please visit https://hungercount.foodbankscanada.ca/.
photo credit: The U.S. National Archives Senior Citizens Find That New Ulm, Minnesota, Is a Good Place to Retire. There Is a Close Community Responsibility Towards Older People No Matter What Their Financial Position Might Be… via photopin (license)
