As Food Banks Mississauga kicks off its annual Spring Drive to stock shelves for those in need, officials warn that U.S.-imposed tariffs and the potential for further economic disruptions are creating significant uncertainty for the city’s largest food bank network.
Growing Need, Rising Challenges
Mississauga saw the fastest-growing food bank usage in Ontario in 2024. Now, with one in 13 residents relying on food banks, the organization fears that economic pressures from south of the border could drive even more people through its doors.
The Spring Drive, running March 10 through April 30, aims to raise $1 million to help meet demand. However, it follows a difficult decision by Food Banks Mississauga (FBM) to implement staff layoffs in order to prioritize food distribution.
“With the unpredictability of U.S. policy changes, we are preparing for more of our neighbors to need food support,” said Meghan Nicholls, CEO of Food Banks Mississauga. “We are already operating at maximum capacity, serving visitors over 420,000 times last year—a nearly 80% year-over-year increase. That’s why we need the community’s generosity now more than ever.”
Nicholls emphasized that for many struggling families, food insecurity is a daily reality.
Take Tanya and her son, Theo (names changed for privacy), for example. Despite working full-time, Tanya shares a small home with two other single mothers and their six children to make ends meet.
“Without community donors, parents like Tanya would have to choose between keeping a roof over their heads or putting food on the table,” Nicholls said.
The Spring Drive is once again supported by Scotts Canada Ltd., which will match all donations dollar for dollar. Last year, the campaign raised $678,000, falling short of its $800,000 goal.
Food Banks Mississauga says monetary donations have the biggest impact, as they allow the organization to purchase fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable food in bulk at lower prices.
$84 donation = Two families fed for a week
With economic uncertainty on the rise, food bank officials urge the community to give generously to help their neighbors in need.