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London Households Struggle: Food Costs Outpace Income
10 Dec
Summary
- Almost one in three London households now face food insecurity.
- Cost of living has risen sharply, outpacing income growth.
- Social assistance rates fail to cover basic needs and housing.
A recent report highlights a concerning rise in food insecurity across the London area, with nearly one in three households now struggling to afford adequate food. This situation stems from a sharp increase in the cost of living that has significantly outpaced income growth, exacerbating an affordability crisis.
The Middlesex-London Health Unit's report emphasizes that food insecurity is a direct indicator of financial strain. For individuals reliant on social assistance programs like Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program, current payment rates are insufficient to cover even basic necessities such as food and shelter, leaving them in a substantial monthly deficit.
Experts suggest that insufficient social assistance rates and the lack of timely increases have made it nearly impossible for low-income families to meet their basic needs. This issue affects not only those on social assistance but also individuals in precarious, low-wage employment who struggle to make ends meet despite working.
