Food Bank

Demographic change on those using Food Banks due to inflation

Oct 25, 2023 | 2:29 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Inflation. It’s a common word lately and affecting everyone, especially when it comes to food, making food banks an even more essential resource than ever. With food prices so high right now, food banks across Canada have been noticing a different demographic using their centers, which doesn’t exclude Prince George.

“[It is growing and expanding] in the demographics that it’s hitting, right? Obviously, each one of us knows it doesn’t take much to figure out. We’re kind of crying about it every time we go and have to get something or get some gas and such like that. And it’s tighter on us. It trickles down, so those that were on the fringe and were doing okay, have now been pushed a little bit over the fringe.”

– Roy Lay, Salvation Army

Many families, individuals, and everyone in between can need food banks and that doesn’t discriminate between provinces, according to Food Bank Canada, 18 per cent of people in Canada are facing food insecurity.

For those who have never used a Food Bank before, there can be some insecurity, but Law says, no matter your circumstances, the Salvation Army is ready to help.

“I understand that reservation and I feel for that. And we do the best that we can to just that isn’t the case here. People are accepted as they walk through the door. Doesn’t matter who and how they look or what it is.”

Food or cash donations are always welcome.