The Ottawa Food Bank has announced a reduction in the amount of food it provides to programs within its network, a decision driven by escalating costs and a significant rise in demand for its services. CEO Rachael Wilson indicated that 98 programs are set to receive between 20 and 50 percent less food than they have in previous years. This adjustment is deemed necessary as the organization grapples with the financial strain that prevents it from acquiring food at previous levels.

Wilson emphasized that the demand for food bank services is at an unprecedented high in Ottawa, with the number of visits to the organization surging by more than 90 percent since 2019. Furthermore, she highlighted that approximately 40 percent of the food banks within her organization's network reported having to turn people away on a weekly basis due to limited capacity last year.

The Ottawa Food Bank typically distributes over 4.4 million kilograms of food annually from its Bantree Street warehouse, serving an estimated 556,000 visits for support each year. The reduction in food supply to its programs is a significant shift for the organization, which has consistently worked to meet the needs of the community amidst rising food insecurity.

This troubling trend reflects broader challenges faced by food banks across the region as they strive to support vulnerable populations while contending with financial pressures. The Ottawa Food Bank's situation underscores the critical need for increased support and resources to ensure that those in need can continue to access vital food assistance.