One in 4 parents say they cut back their own food consumption to feed their kids: report

According to a recent report by the Salvation Army, one in four parents have had to cut back on their own food consumption in order to ensure that their children have enough to eat over the past year. The report highlights the challenges faced by parents in Canada, particularly when it comes to the rising cost of living, specifically in terms of grocery bills.

John Murray, a spokesperson for the Salvation Army, expressed concern over the situation, stating that many Canadians are struggling to meet their basic needs, especially when it comes to providing for their children and family members. The report revealed that 24 percent of parents surveyed had reduced their food intake to ensure their kids were fed. Additionally, 90 percent of these parents said they had to cut back on grocery expenses to allocate money towards other financial obligations, while 86 percent admitted to buying less nutritious food due to affordability issues, and 84 percent reported skipping meals altogether.

The report also highlighted the increasing reliance on food banks in Canada, with Food Banks Canada reporting over two million visits to Canadian food banks in March of this year alone. The Salvation Army noted a significant rise in first-time food bank users over the past year, with 58 percent of those accessing the organization’s food banks being first-time users.

While concerns about food affordability and inflation have slightly decreased since last year, with inflation rates falling to 1.6 percent in September after peaking at 8.1 percent in June of 2022, the report indicates that health care has become a top concern for many Canadians in 2024, with 59 percent listing it as their main worry. Homelessness follows closely behind, with 44 percent expressing concerns in this area.

Murray emphasized the interconnectedness of food insecurity and health care, stating that individuals living in such conditions experience emotional, mental, and physical stress, leading to a vicious cycle of poor health outcomes. The report also highlighted political responses to the issue, with the Conservative Party blaming Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government for the food insecurity crisis. In response, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds’s spokesperson criticized the Conservatives for using the report to exploit insecurities for political gain, emphasizing the importance of maintaining programs aimed at supporting those in need.

Overall, the report sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by many families in Canada, particularly in terms of food insecurity and rising living costs. It underscores the need for continued support and advocacy to address these pressing issues and ensure the well-being of all Canadians.