10 articles to spark discussion
Hunger and poverty are complex issues that can be tough to talk about. And there is no silver-bullet solution. But having the conversation is essential—to learn more, to bust stereotypes, and to work toward change.
Looking for some good reads? Here are ten articles, in no particular order, on a variety of topics to get you thinking and to spark discussion.
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The poor need a guaranteed income not our charity
The Walrus dives into PROOF’s research that shows food insecurity is an income problem, not a food problem. -
How bad teeth are at the root of income inequality in Canada
You might not think about your teeth often if you’ve got access to dental care, but for those who don’t it can have a huge impact—and not just on physical health. -
I was the rock that everyone else was leaning on
One woman shares her very personal, painful struggle to live a life of dignity on social assistance. -
Why the business of ugly produce is so complicated
Food waste is a hot topic that many people look to it as a way to curb food insecurity. But is it a sustainable source of food for food banks? -
Dangers of violence faced by homeless women
This a tough, but important read from Now in Toronto. -
Total inequality
A look at the research being done to shed light on the financial, psychological, and cultural impacts of poverty. -
A conversation on food insecurity
This one’s a podcast, not an article, but we couldn’t leave it out. In the first episode, Bill Carr sits down with poverty advocate Tim Blades and filmmaker Jackie Torrens to talk food insecurity. -
From barely surviving to thriving
Wondering how the basic income pilot in Ontario is going? The Toronto Star reported on the impact. -
Struggling to survive on social assistance
Many folks know the Income Assistance program in Nova Scotia is broken, and changes are underway to overhaul the program. But if you’re unfamiliar with the struggles faced by many, this article from the Chronicle Herald is a great place to start. -
Don’t promote food banks, end them
During the holiday season, the premier of BC tweeted encouraging people to donate to their local food bank. A professor at the UBC School of Social Work responded to his call with a push for greater action.