Opposition leader says the Stephenville food bank was forced to reduce hamper sizes just to stay operational

    Friday, 1 November 2024 12:00

    By Tonya Organ

    According to new data released by Food Banks Canada, food bank visits have risen by 50 per cent since 2021, and 30 percent of Canadian food banks have run out of food.

    The leader of the opposition, Tony Wakeham, is calling for urgent action to address Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing food insecurity crisis, as food banks across the province are forced to cut back amid soaring demand and inflationary pressures. Wakeham says “Due to rising costs and increased demand, the Stephenville food bank was forced to reduce hamper sizes just to stay operational, highlighting a dire situation. " He says food banks across the province are speaking out about the surging need and their struggle to keep up. Staff and volunteers are being forced to cut back on what they provide to those in need. According to new data released by Food Banks Canada, food bank visits have risen by 50 per cent since 2021, and 30 percent of Canadian food banks have run out of food. The Seniors’ Advocate reported last fall that 32 percent of seniors did not have enough income to meet their financial needs.ch further burden struggling families and food banks.

     

    To report an error, submit a news tip, or provide feedback, please e-mail news@bayfm.ca or call (709) 637-0183.

    More from Local News

     

     

     

    BayFM recognizes support from the following agencies:

                        

    Today's Weather

    • Corner Brook

      Heavy snow

      High: 1°C | Low: -3°C

    • Deer Lake

      Sleet

      High: 3°C | Low: -2°C

    • Stephenville

      Heavy snow

      High: 0°C | Low: -2°C

    Recently Played

    Podcasts

    • Center Stage with Stella

      Center Stage with Stella

      Center Stage with Stella, February 12, 2026

    • BayFM On-Demand

      Trash Talk Thursday , February 12, 2026

      Today we learn about plastics

    • The Plain Truth

      The Plain Truth, Wednesday February 11, 2026

      Paula Sheppard’s guest this week is Dan Meades, Provincial Coordinator for the Transiton House Association of NL.