House of Commons: Statements by Members — Food Security

Mr. Speaker, Canada's food banks saw 2.36 million visits in March alone, up 117% since 2019. In Waterloo region, one in nine families relies on food banks just to get by. Waterloo businessman Jim Balsillie donated an extraordinary $4.5 million to our local food bank. That was an incredible act of kindness and generosity. The fact that our food bank still needs more support, despite a donation of that size, shows just how great the need has become. It is clear that the Liberal government is failing to acknowledge the affordability crisis or ensure stability within our market. Until these things change, it is only going to get worse. Canadians need to be able to put warm food on the table without relying on a food bank. The Liberal government must react to the needs of everyday Canadians.