Quebec is facing a significant food crisis, with a recent survey revealing alarming levels of food insecurity among its residents.
A study conducted by Omniweb Léger in collaboration with La Guignolée des médias has shown that 36% of Quebecers are currently experiencing some form of food insecurity, marking a substantial increase from 22% in the previous year. Notably, severe food insecurity has doubled over the past five years, jumping from 8% to 17%.
The survey highlights that young adults between 18 and 34 years old are disproportionately affected by this crisis. Nearly half of them, 49%, face occasional food insecurity due to insufficient food supplies or the inability to afford balanced meals, with 27% experiencing severe food insecurity.
Furthermore, the issue is also impacting adults aged 35 to 54, with 45% of them grappling with some level of food insecurity.
According to Éric Chalifoux, a senior consulting director at Léger, the results are concerning as they indicate a broadening of the problem across different age groups.
Key statistics from the survey underscore the severity of the situation. It reveals that 41% of food-insecure Quebecers are employed, pointing to the fact that even having a job is not a guarantee against food insecurity. Additionally, among households earning less than $40,000 annually, two-thirds (66%) are facing food insecurity, a significant increase from previous years.
The findings call for urgent action and support, particularly as they come just ahead of the 25th annual street collection organized by La Guignolée des médias. This initiative aims to gather widespread support across Quebec to ensure that everyone can enjoy the holiday season with dignity. Since its inception in 2001, the campaign has raised $67.6 million and a substantial amount of food items, benefiting over 100 organizations in the region.
