I hope you had a joyful and restful holiday season and are feeling recharged for the year ahead. As we settle into the winter months, I encourage everyone to stay safe, warm, and connected with our community.
This week, we were deeply reminded of the critical need to address both housing and food insecurity in our city. Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the individual who tragically lost their life in the cold. This heartbreaking loss underscores the urgency of ensuring no one is left without shelter during extreme weather conditions.
This week the Ottawa Food Bank shared an important message about the rising demand for food assistance and the growing challenges in meeting the community’s needs. Unlike other vital social services, the Ottawa Food Bank does not receive sustained funding from municipal, provincial, or federal governments. Instead, they rely almost entirely on donations from the community and corporate partners. This makes community support all the more critical in addressing food insecurity.
Housing insecurity and food insecurity are linked – often people must choose between being able to buy groceries or pay their rent. No one should have to make this choice – everyone deserves to have a home and access to nutritious food. Poverty comes from the lack of income to pay the rent and purchase food. I’m proud that my motion on basic income was passed, as it’s a crucial step toward addressing systemic poverty. Basic income directly supports housing stability and food security by providing individuals with the financial means to cover essential needs. As of July 2024, Ontario Works (OW) rates have not seen any increase or adjustment for inflation. This marks the sixth consecutive year without a change, despite the ongoing challenges posed by high inflation on the cost of living. In effect, the unchanged rates amount to a reduction in value for recipients.
If you are able, please consider donating to the Ottawa Food Bank to help them continue their essential work. Your contribution can provide much-needed support to families and individuals struggling with food insecurity.
If you or someone you know needs help, the City of Ottawa offers outreach services to connect individuals with shelter and resources. If you see someone struggling outdoors, please call 3-1-1 and request the dispatch team to assist. Your call could save a life.
In the long term, addressing these challenges demands bold action to build more affordable and supportive housing across Ottawa while also strengthening access to food security programs. Housing and food are basic human rights, and we remain steadfast in advocating for solutions that create safe, secure, and nourished communities for all.
As we move forward, let us continue working together toward a safer, more compassionate, and more connected city for everyone.
For more information on cold weather safety, visit the Ottawa Public Health’s website: Cold Weather – Ottawa Public Health
For more City of Ottawa updates, please visit the City of Ottawa Newsroom.
