Haldimand-Norfolk food banks are seeing a significant increase in demand heading into the new year, according to MPP Bobbi Ann Brady.
Brady highlighted rising food insecurity during the holiday season, citing economic pressures such as inflation, high rent, and increased grocery costs.
Brady referenced the Feed Ontario 2025 Hunger Report, which shows that food bank use has risen for the ninth consecutive year across the province.
The report found that over 1 million Ontarians accessed food assistance more than 8.7 million times in 2025, with many relying on food banks despite being employed.
Locally, the Hagersville Food Bank saw visits increase by 23 percent compared to 2024, reflecting a growing need in Haldimand-Norfolk.
Brady noted that food insecurity affects a wide range of people, from families on tight budgets to individuals facing health challenges or unexpected financial hardships.
The MPP encouraged residents to support local food banks if possible, emphasizing that even small donations can go a long way.
Brady also praised the Chicken Farmers of Ontario, whose CFO Cares program provided 13.7 million chicken meals to food banks across Ontario this year.
“Food insecurity is all around us, and these organizations are doing critical work to make sure everyone has enough to eat,” Brady said. She added that community donations can help local food banks stretch their resources further and provide meals to those most in need.