TORONTO, October 21, 2026 – Food Banks Canada released its HungerCount 2026 report on October 21, revealing that food bank visits across the country reached approximately 2.35 million in March, setting another record. The figure represents an increase of nearly 9 per cent from last year and 117 per cent compared with 2019.
The annual HungerCount report tracks the use of food banks and related food assistance programs across Canada during March. This year’s findings once again show that the demographics of people relying on food assistance are changing.
According to the report, approximately 18 per cent of food bank clients are currently employed, compared with 12.2 per cent in 2019. This means some Canadians continue to rely on food banks despite earning income from employment.
Housing expenses are another major source of financial pressure for many households. Approximately 72 per cent of food bank clients are renters, while children account for about one-third of all users.
Food Banks Canada said that although overall inflation has slowed in recent years, households continue to feel the effects of rising food, housing and transportation costs. Since 2021, food prices in Canada have increased by approximately 30 per cent, housing costs by 28 per cent and transportation costs by nearly 24 per cent.
Some households have already reduced other daily expenses, used their savings or taken on additional debt before turning to food banks. As essential costs such as rent, groceries and transportation continue to rise, families have less room in their budgets to manage unexpected expenses.
Last year’s HungerCount report recorded approximately 2.166 million food bank visits in a single month. This year’s figure represents an increase of about 190,000 visits. The 2025 total had already been nearly double the level recorded in 2019.
Food Banks Canada is calling on governments to reform Employment Insurance and income support programs, increase the supply of affordable housing, and strengthen food security in northern and remote communities.
This year’s report shows that employed individuals, renters and families with children continue to represent significant portions of food bank users. The continued rise in monthly food bank visits to record levels also reflects the ongoing impact of living costs on households across Canada.
（LJI by Yuanyuan）
