Food banks across Canada are facing a critical situation as the demand surges and they struggle to keep up with the needs. Josh Smee, the CEO of Food First NL, envisions a future without food banks, emphasizing the need for policy change rather than continued charity.

"Putting an End to Food Bank Dependency in Canada"

Background and History

Food banks have been around for quite some time. As Josh Smee mentioned, they are as old as he is. The first food bank in Canada, Edmonton's Food Bank, opened its doors in the 1980s as a temporary measure during an economic downturn. However, decades later, it remains open and is busier than ever. The conditions that led to its creation, such as low incomes and a lack of affordable housing, have not improved.This surge in demand is evident in a report by Food Banks Canada. In March 2024 alone, there were more than two million visits to Canadian food banks, which is a 6% increase from the previous year and a 90% increase from 2019. Among the new users, more than 50% are employed full-time, and over 60% have a post-secondary education and are working.

The Current Crisis

The situation is dire as food banks across the country are running out of food. More than 30% of food banks reported this issue. Marjorie Bencz, the executive director of Edmonton's Food Bank, emphasizes that food banks were never meant to bear this much weight. The constant scramble for resources is not sustainable for anyone involved.Meghan Nicholls, the CEO of Food Banks Mississauga, is frustrated as the government seems to be ignoring the growing food crisis. Despite her efforts to bring the issue to the attention of elected officials, she often only receives a pat on the back instead of actual solutions.

The Campaign to Put Food Banks Out of Business

The Toronto Vegetarian Food Bank launched a campaign called "Put Food Banks Out of Business" to address this issue. It calls on Canadians to donate to food banks during the holiday season and also reach out to their local members of Parliament to advocate for basic income. Matt Noble, the organization's executive director, believes that food insecurity should not be the responsibility of the charitable sector alone.Josh Smee agrees and calls on donors to not only give financially but also to speak to their lawmakers about basic income. He emphasizes that people experiencing food insecurity want policy change, not just better emergency aid.

The Need for Donations

Despite the campaign, food banks still need Canadians' generosity. Smee encourages donors to make a note to bring up the issue of basic income with candidates when they come knocking. He believes that in a future with basic income, food banks might still be needed for brief emergencies, but they were not designed to be a long-term solution.In conclusion, the situation in Canada's food banks is complex and urgent. There is a need for policy change, increased donations, and a collective effort to address the root causes of food insecurity. Only then can we hope to see a time when food banks are no longer a necessary part of our society.