Peter Kerek Asks:
Food Banks first started appearing in Canada in the early 1980's - and their usage has only increased since then. Why do you think Food Banks have become a permanent institution in Canada, even though we live in a country that has no shortage of food? And what systemic changes need to occur to eliminate the need for Food Banks?
I believe that food banks have become so permanent because we live in a time where the poor are expected to choose other basic necessities such as transportation, internet, and communication over food. Food is an easy item to supply, as you said we have no shortage of it. The way to change this is to raise minimum wage in areas according to cost of living. We also need to make access to things like a cell phone and the internet a right. Its hard to get and keep a job when you don't have a cell phone or regular access to a computer. Minimum wage should be able to cover all your expenses including rent, transportation, communication, home bills, and food. I believe in fair wages and meaningful employment for all Canadian Citizens.