A recent report from Food Banks Canada highlights a troubling rise in food insecurity across the country. The charity's 2025 "Poverty Report Card" assigns Canada a failing grade for food insecurity and unemployment, while giving a slightly better grade of "C" for legislative progress. This results in an overall grade of "D" for the nation.

According to the report, which draws on data from Statistics Canada, approximately one in four Canadians experience some level of food insecurity. This ranges from concerns about running out of food to going entire days without eating. The data is based on the Canadian Income Survey conducted in 2023 and released this year.

Kirstin Beardsley, CEO of Food Banks Canada, expressed cautious optimism regarding new government initiatives. She pointed to the Canadian Dental Care Plan and the National School Food Program as potential aids for those struggling financially. Beardsley emphasized the need for the federal government to enhance the social safety net, stating, "It shouldn't fall to charities to keep people from going hungry."

"While the federal government isn't getting a grade you'd necessarily want to bring home to your parents with a 'D,' there has been some legislative progress that we are starting to see the effects of in our data," Beardsley said in a phone interview prior to the report's release on Tuesday. She added that it is crucial to maintain this momentum to improve future grades.

The report also notes a significant increase in unemployment among young people, with rates climbing by a third since 2023. Beardsley criticized the current employment insurance program, stating it has not adapted to the realities of the gig economy. "It needs to be realistic for today's workers and just needs a full look-through to make sure that a program built in the '90s makes sense for the workforce of 2025, especially as we head into turbulent economic times," she said.

The findings of this report underscore the ongoing challenges faced by many Canadians in securing adequate food and employment, while also highlighting the potential for government initiatives to make a positive impact.