Kingston, Ont., declares emergency as roughly 1 in 3 households struggle with food insecurity

Food insecurity is a growing crisis in Kingston, Ontario, and for city councillor Greg Ridge, it hits close to home. Ridge’s childhood experience with food insecurity has shaped his passion for addressing the issue in his community.

When Ridge was just eight years old, his father was injured on the job and had to go on disability. This sudden loss of income led to financial struggles for his family, and Ridge vividly remembers the stress and uncertainty that came with not being able to afford basic necessities like food. He recalls his grandparents dropping off groceries and his parents having hushed conversations about money. One memory that stands out for Ridge is seeing his mother cry in the kitchen, a moment that has stayed with him throughout his life.

As a member of Kingston’s city council, Ridge is determined to make a difference for families facing food insecurity. Last week, the council declared food insecurity an emergency in the city. Ridge believes that the problem is so severe that people are “drowning” and struggling to make ends meet despite their best efforts. The municipality is doing what it can to help, but Ridge acknowledges that more needs to be done to support those in need.

According to public health units in eastern Ontario, food insecurity is a significant issue affecting roughly one in three households in the Kingston area. This struggle is not unique to Kingston, as food insecurity rates are increasing nationally. The consequences of food insecurity go beyond hunger, leading to poor mental health outcomes and long-term impacts on children and families.

Martha’s Table, a meal program in Kingston, has seen a dramatic increase in users, with a 300% rise since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive director Ronda Candy describes the organization’s efforts to feed people from all walks of life, including employed individuals and those experiencing homelessness. The sight of children and families seeking assistance is emotional for the staff at Martha’s Table, highlighting the urgent need for support in the community.

In response to the food insecurity emergency, Kingston, Toronto, and Mississauga are calling on the provincial government for assistance. The city council’s motion urges the province to increase social assistance rates, fund school meal programs, and establish a guaranteed livable basic income. While the government has made some efforts to address food insecurity, Ridge and his colleagues hope that declaring an emergency will prioritize the issue and bring about meaningful change for those struggling to put food on the table.

Ultimately, Ridge’s goal is to create a better tomorrow for everyone in Kingston. By raising awareness about food insecurity and advocating for necessary resources, he hopes to make a positive impact on the lives of those facing hardship. The emergency declaration serves as a reminder that no one should have to go without food, and it is essential to support vulnerable individuals and families in the community.