BY: Ayesha Khan
As costs rise in Toronto, vulnerable communities face mounting challenges. Inflation in Canada surged 13.4% between 2018 and 2022, with essentials like food, shelter, and transportation climbing 18%. Food insecurity has spiked, with over 1 in 10 Torontonians now relying on food banks—a 273% increase from pre-pandemic levels. According to the Daily Bread Food Bank’s 2024 Who’s Hungry report, 57% of users began seeking help within the past year. Most are working-age, and 59% hold post-secondary degrees, reflecting the growing burden on middle-income households.
In Downsview, the House of Praise Tabernacle is tackling food insecurity head-on. Led by Olivia Wilks, who once relied on food banks herself, the church’s food bank aims to support the community despite economic pressures. Early efforts were met with limited resources, but partnerships with NeighbourLink, Haven on the Queensway, and GlobalMedic provided some relief. The group has organized a community giveaway event set for November 30th, though Wilks worries about sustaining the program. “Food banks run on donations. We’ve had a good start, but the future is uncertain,” she says.
Other initiatives highlight the crisis. Matriarch Care serves Indo-Caribbean seniors in Jane-Finch, delivering culturally familiar groceries to help elders struggling with rising costs. Co-founder Natasha Cheddie notes that many live below the poverty line, often in isolation and without basic necessities.
Meanwhile, the Society for the Living Food Bank, operating in Jane-Finch since 1998, faces its most challenging period. Reverend Venunye Nyamadi reports skyrocketing demand, with families returning more often than allotted. Their operations at Oakdale Community Centre and Jane-Sheppard Library are stretched to the limit as holiday demand increases.
Despite these difficulties, generosity persists. Local grocers like Bestco and Danforth Food Market have stepped up to donate supplies. Bestco’s surprise contribution—a wagon full of pasta, canned goods, and drinks—was a moment of hope for Wilks’ team. These contributions will help cover their immediate needs, but long-term stability remains elusive.
As food prices climb and demand grows, community-led efforts like these are critical. Leaders like Wilks, Cheddie, and Nyamadi persist in their mission to ensure no one is left behind.
Donations for House of Praise Tabernacle can be dropped off at 800 Arrow Road, and Society for the Living at 350 Grandravine Drive. Please call ahead for details.