In My Opinion: Hunger is a political policy choice and it’s time for Ontario to take action

By SUMAN ROY

Hunger in Ontario is not an accident. It is not a natural disaster or an unavoidable consequence of the economy. It is a direct result of policy choices that have left too many people struggling to afford basic necessities.

As we approach another provincial election, it is time for Ontario’s political leaders to recognize that food insecurity is not a charitable issue—it is a policy failure that demands bold action.

Food insecurity is not just about food banks and meal programs; it is about wages, housing, healthcare, and social support.

At Scarborough Food Security Initiative, we see firsthand the impact of policies that have failed to keep up with the realities of life in Ontario.

The people who walk through our doors are not just statistics—they are parents working multiple jobs who still can’t afford rent and groceries, seniors who must choose between food and medication, and students who go hungry while trying to get an education.

The System is Broken—Here’s How We Fix It

If Ontario’s leaders are serious about tackling food insecurity, they must address the root causes. This means shifting from short-term fixes to systemic change.

Here’s what needs to happen:

1.) Increase Social Assistance Rates – Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) are so low that recipients are left well below the poverty line. People cannot afford both rent and food. Raising these rates to reflect the actual cost of living is essential.

2.) Ensure Affordable Housing – One of the biggest reasons people rely on food banks is that housing costs eat up almost their entire income. If we want to solve food insecurity, we must address the housing crisis by increasing social housing, enforcing rent controls, and protecting tenants from unfair evictions.

3.) Raise the Minimum Wage – No one working full-time should be unable to afford food. A true living wage—one that reflects inflation and real costs of living—is critical to keeping people out of poverty.

4.) Invest in Local Food Systems – Food insecurity isn’t just about affordability—it’s about access. Strengthening local food production, supporting urban agriculture, and funding community food programs can help ensure that everyone has access to fresh, nutritious food.

5.) Expand Mental Health and Addiction Services – There is a strong connection between food insecurity, mental health, and addiction. Ensuring easy access to affordable, stigma-free support services is crucial in breaking the cycle of poverty.

6.) Implement a Basic Income Pilot – A guaranteed basic income could help ensure that no one falls below a subsistence level. The previous pilot program in Ontario showed positive results before being cancelled. It’s time to bring it back and expand it.

7.) Address Systemic Inequalities – Indigenous communities, racialized women, and people with disabilities experience higher levels of food insecurity. Targeted policies that acknowledge and address these disparities are necessary to create meaningful change.

A Political Litmus Test

This election, voters need to ask candidates one simple question: Will you commit to ending hunger in Ontario?

Anything less than a firm commitment to policy change is not enough. We cannot keep relying on food banks and charities to do the government’s job.

The solutions are clear, and the need is urgent. This is not about charity; this is about justice.

Ontario’s next government must take responsibility for ensuring that no one in this province goes hungry. The choice is theirs—and ours.

• Suman Roy is the President & CEO of Scarborough Food Security Initiative.