Salvation Army Report: 41% of Quebecers Rank Food Affordability Among Top Three Concerns

The Salvation Army’s 2026 Canadian Poverty and Socioeconomic Analysis reports that concern about food affordability has risen sharply in Quebec, up 15 points. According to the report, 41 per cent of Quebecers now rank food affordability among the top three issues facing Canada, a 15-point increase in just one year.

The research also found that households in the province continue to face financial strain. One in four Quebecers (25 per cent) said they skip or reduce meals because they cannot afford groceries. More than half (52 per cent) said they are not confident they could find another suitable, affordable home in their community if they had to move.

The survey drew responses from more than 1,500 Canadians about their experiences with poverty, food affordability and housing costs. Approximately 15 per cent of Quebecers turned to community food supports in 2026, and 58 per cent reported challenges in managing limited financial resources.

Wendy Woodland, divisional secretary for public relations for the Atlantic Division, said that food affordability had become one of the biggest concerns for Quebecers. “For many Quebecers, the cost of living isn’t just about cutting back on extras anymore,” Woodland said. “It’s about making difficult choices between groceries, housing and other basic necessities.”

On housing, the report found that approximately 16 per cent of Quebecers spend at least half of their after-tax household income on housing, compared with 24 per cent nationally. Woodland said that housing insecurity “isn’t only about losing a home, it’s also about the fear of having nowhere affordable to go when circumstances change.”

The Salvation Army said it will continue supporting families facing economic uncertainty through food banks, community meals and practical assistance. Woodland said the organization is helping people access essentials “while offering dignity and hope during difficult times,” and that its work includes feeding people who cannot afford groceries, a practical form of sharing what one has (Hebrews 13:16).

The organization also said that charitable giving has declined even as Canadians face financial pressure. “Every donation and every volunteer hour helps The Salvation Army continue providing food, shelter and practical assistance to individuals and families who need it most,” the statement said. “Together, we can give hope to people facing difficult times.”

Source: Read the original report