A quarter of Canadian parents are skipping meals to help feed their kids

A recent study has revealed that nearly a quarter of Canadian parents are cutting back on personal food consumption so their children can eat.

Analysts within the Salvation Army surveyed roughly 1,500 Canadians — and as a result — published the 2024 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis.

Key findings within the report revealed that Canadians with families are feeling the pressure more than ever, as 24 per cent of parents reported cutting back on their food consumption to ensure their children could eat balanced daily meals.

Additional information in the report also revealed that 59 per cent of national respondents listed healthcare as a primary issue, with homelessness and housing insecurity coming in at second place with 44 per cent.

For Ontario, concerns are nearly neck and neck with the national average, however, the cost of living still remains in the front of everyone’s mind.

According to the research gathered on behalf of the Salvation Army, 65 per cent of Ontarians rank managing limited resources as their number one priority, with healthcare at 57 per cent.

When asked about detailed concerns, here is how Ontarians responded:

• 50 per cent are concerned about the cost of living and inflation (down 10 per cent from last year.)
• 36 per cent rank energy costs as their biggest concern.
• 33 per cent maintain that physical and mental health are their biggest stressor.

“We know that Canadians are still feeling the pressure, especially when it comes to their basic needs. Our role is to ensure that those who are struggling have access to the services and support they need,” said Glenn van Gulik, divisional secretary for public relations for The Salvation Army in an official statement.

For more information on the 2024 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis, visit The Salvation Army’s official website.