Public health units, including the one in Windsor-Essex, are calling on the Ontario government to increase social assistance rates, even for Ontario Works.
Across the region, public health units are increasingly concerned about the number of households in Southwestern Ontario that are struggling to afford the most basic needs, including food.
In 2024, one in four households in the region experienced household food insecurity, meaning they simply don't have enough money after paying for shelter and other necessities to afford enough food to feed their families. Rising housing and living costs are forcing many people to make the difficult choice between paying rent and eating.
"Food insecurity is not about budgeting or food skills; it's about income. When people don't have enough money, they cannot meet their basic needs, which directly impacts their health and well-being," said Medical Officer of Health at the Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Dr Mehdi Aloosh.
Health units monitor food affordability by comparing the costs of food and rent. They have found a single adult on Ontario Works faces a monthly deficit of $301 to $859 depending on where they live in Southwestern Ontario. Many other low- and modest-income families face similar challenges with little or no money left after paying their bills.
In addition to boosting social assistance rates, health units are also calling for better income supports for low and modest-income households, and implementing policies that reduce the cost of housing and rent.
Food insecurity is linked to poorer physical and mental health, a higher risk of chronic disease, and increased pressure on the healthcare system. Children and youth may suffer poor concentration, memory, mood, and motor skills, making it harder to succeed at school.
