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The Conservative Party of Canada is calling on the federal government to take urgent action as the cost of living continues to rise and food insecurity worsens nationwide. Recent reports reveal that millions of Canadians are turning to food banks for support in 2025 — a troubling sign of deepening economic hardship.

Food Bank Visits Reach Historic Highs

According to a new report from Food Banks Canada, monthly food bank visits reached nearly 2.2 million in March 2025 – a five per cent increase from the previous year and almost double the usage seen in 2019. The organization described the situation as “historic and very concerning,” emphasizing that the growing demand signals a national emergency.

Another study, jointly released by the Daily Bread Food Bank and North York Harvest Food Bank, found that more than one in ten Torontonians now rely on food banks. The report highlights that demand is outpacing supply, with many families struggling to afford essentials despite being employed.

Conservative Response: ‘Hunger Is the New Normal’

In a statement responding to the reports, the Conservative Party accused the federal government of economic mismanagement, claiming that “only a decade of Liberal incompetence could make hunger the new normal.”

The party further argued that government spending is contributing to inflation, saying that “every dollar added to the national deficit drives up the cost of everything.” Conservatives reiterated calls for policies that would provide affordable homes, full cupboards, and hope for Canadians facing financial stress.

Food Insecurity: A Growing National Concern

Experts warn that unless significant policy changes are made, food bank reliance could continue to rise in 2026. The combination of high housing costs, inflation, and stagnant wages has created conditions where more Canadians are struggling to meet basic needs.

Food Banks Canada and other organizations are urging all levels of government to implement long-term strategies that address the root causes of poverty and food insecurity — not just emergency responses.

Written by Current News Desk.