Food Banks brace for impact from trade war

CKCO031125_FOFood banks are worried that the if the economy takes a hit, there won’t be enough donations to help those in need. CTV’s Jeff Pickel reports. OD01

As the trade war between Canada and the U.S. escalates, food banks say the effects of it will hit hardest for the most vulnerable population.

The Cambridge Food Bank and The Food Bank of Waterloo Region believes an economic slow down hurts them in several ways.

“If people are losing their jobs or if they’re laid off, we’re going to see most likely more people coming to the food bank,” said Dianne Mcleod, CEO of The Cambridge Food Bank.

With a lot more people facing difficult financial circumstances, and the potential of increasing food costs, they also worry that large donors may be forced to back off.

“Certainly our friends in the automotive sector may not be able to donate as much as they would, they might be just holding off until they hear how the tariffs are going to affect their businesses, said Mcleod.

Officials with The Food Bank of Waterloo Region said they have not seen a tariff related increase but they have seen increased numbers due to the ongoing affordability crisis.

“We’re seeing about a 10 per cent increase over last year, month to month. Over 73,000 individuals in Waterloo region last year accessed food assistance,” said Kim Wilhelm, CEO of The Food Bank of Waterloo Region.

Donations of any kind are welcome, but they say financial contributions allow for more flexibility.

“Today I spent just over $7,000 on fruit and vegetables that will last us a week. They also help by paying the heat and hydro and the insurance on our vehicles and gas for our vehicles,” said Mcleod.

Both food banks thank the community for ongoing support and say more may be needed in the near future.