This year, 10% of Toronto residents go to the food bank

According to an annual report, visits to food banks in Toronto have reached an unprecedented level. The report reveals that this year, on average, one out of every 10 people has accessed a food bank, compared to one in 20 people last year. The Daily Bread Food Bank released the report on Tuesday, indicating that food banks have experienced the highest annual increase, with 120,000 individuals using the services for the first time.

Neil Hetherington, the CEO of the food bank, stated, "A significant increase in housing costs, food inflation, and low income has led more individuals to turn to food banks." The key point in this report is the demographic shift among those seeking assistance from food banks. Half of the visitors are employed within their households, 59% have completed university education, and one-fourth of them are children.

Experts note that many food banks are approaching their full capacity and lack the necessary resources to sustain their operations. Faced with the challenge of resource shortages, they are at a crossroads, considering potential service reductions or even the closure of food banks in the near future. Food banks are urging all levels of government to make increased efforts to combat poverty.

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