HungerCount 2015 finds the need for food is on the rise across Canada and Waterloo Region

The number of people using food banks in Canada is on the rise again.

Food Banks Canada’s HungerCount 2015 report finds this past March, food banks saw more than 852,000 people come through their doors, up just over one per cent compared to the same month in 2014.

1 in 20 households in Waterloo Region received food assistance last year with half of these households made up of families with children.

Since 2008, there has been a 30 per cent increase in emergency food hamper requests in Waterloo Region.

Within Waterloo Region, 18 per cent of those accessing food assistance are employed or receive employment insurance, 28 per cent of people receive Ontario Disability support and 36 per cent are Ontario Works recipients.

Pat Singlton Executive Director, with The Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank tells 570 News there is a big need for support for those in low incoming households.

“One of the biggest struggles for our families is the cost of rent. It’s one thing to find a place to live but also to find affordable housing. People come here because they have used whatever they have and don’t have a lot left over for food.”

Singleton adds that you can start to make a difference this weekend as non-perishable food items as well as monetary donations are being collected at both the Kitchener Waterloo and Cambridge Santa Claus Parades.

To make a donation or learn more about how you can help local families in need go to thefoodbank.ca.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today