Grand Erie Public Health (GEPH) has released a new report examining the extent and impact of food insecurity across the region, showing that one in four households experienced food insecurity in 2023–2024. The findings highlight the growing challenge many individuals and families face in affording enough nutritious food to support their health and wellbeing.
Food insecurity refers to inadequate or unreliable access to food due to financial constraints. As part of its legislated responsibilities, GEPH collected food affordability data in May 2025 using the Ontario Nutritious Food Basket across 23 grocery stores in the region. Results show the average monthly cost of a basic nutritious diet for a family of four is approximately $1,200 across the region.
When food costs are considered alongside rent and income, many households cannot meet basic needs. Local analysis shows a single person receiving Ontario Works in Brantford-Brant falls more than $900 short each month for rent and food alone, while a family of four on Ontario Works in Haldimand-Norfolk is short by more than $700.
The report also includes insights from local residents with lived experience of food insecurity, who described skipping meals, relying on food banks, and experiencing ongoing challenges of trying to make ends meet. Food insecurity is associated with higher rates of chronic disease, mental illness, and increased health-care use, and children in food-insecure households face greater risks to their long-term health and development.
At its meeting on February 18, the GEPH Board of Health endorsed a new Municipal Primer on Food Insecurity, a resource that outlines the causes and local impacts of food insecurity and supports municipalities in understanding their role in responding. The Primer will be shared with the City of Brantford, County of Brant, Haldimand County and Norfolk County to support coordinated local awareness and action.
The Food Insecurity in the Grand Erie Public Health Region report and the Municipal Primer are available at www.geph.ca/foodinsecurity. Printed copies are also available at the Brantford-Brant office location (194 Terrace Hill Street, Brantford) or the Simcoe office location at 185 Robinson Street, Suite 200.
Quotes:
“The Board of Health is proud to endorse a Primer for Municipalities on Food Insecurity in the Grand Erie Public Health Region. Food insecurity is a growing public health issue affecting one in four households locally, with significant impacts on the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities. This endorsement reflects our shared commitment to raising awareness and supporting healthier communities.”
-Maria Kinkel, Chair, GEPH Board of Health
“Food insecurity is a significant and growing public health concern in our region, with serious impacts on the physical and mental health of individuals and families. Addressing this issue requires continued awareness, advocacy, and collective action to improve health and wellbeing across our communities and ensure people have the supports they need to live healthy lives.”
-Dr. Jason Malenfant, GEPH Medical Officer of Health
-30-
Grand Erie Public Health
As one of Ontario’s public health units, we are determined defenders of community health. Our public health focus on prevention, protection, and promotion contributes to healthier outcomes across Brantford, Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk.
We are unshakeable in our commitment to being a trusted and authentic source of public health knowledge, guided by the Health Protection and Promotion Act and the Ontario Public Health Standards. We safeguard the well-being of everyone – no matter who they are or where they come from.