Advocate
We all have a role to play to increase food security. Wondering what you can do? Here are a few ways to get started.
INDIVIDUALS
- Invest time in learning about food insecurity. There is no shortage of information out there.
- Challenge the assumptions you and other people have about those who are food insecure. Lead with kindness and empathy.
- Share what you learn and engage people in conversation. We all need to own this problem because it impacts everyone.
- Acknowledge that food is not the solution to food insecurity. Food support is critical to meeting the immediate need for food, but only bold policy intervention will create lasting change.
- Show our elected officials that food insecurity is a priority for you and for the health of neighbours and communities, and hold them accountable for leading the change.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
- Reach out to another community group and work together.
- Acknowledge the small steps—we won’t leap out of this problem.
- Share the impact stories of your support.
- Don’t let the drive to get it right every time get in the way of doing something good.
BUSINESSES
- Provide adequate health benefits, daycare services, and mental health support for your employees.
- Push yourself to provide the best wages you can.
- Increase the minimum number of hours you provide employees.
- Use your position to influence social policy and support community action.
GOVERNMENT
- Push for programs and policies that support all constituents.
- Increase Income Assistance levels, especially for single individuals and couples without children.
- Develop policies and actions based on evidence and measurable results.