Food banks across Quebec are facing unprecedented demand in 2025, with statistics showing a 34% increase in users compared to pre-pandemic levels. The troubling surge comes despite Quebec’s relatively strong economic recovery, pointing to deeper issues of affordability and wage stagnation affecting even middle-income households.
At the Saint-Michel Community Food Bank in Montreal’s east end, coordinator Marie Tremblay has witnessed the changing face of food insecurity firsthand. “We’re seeing people we never expected to see here,” she tells me during my visit last Tuesday. “Teachers, healthcare workers, people with full-time jobs who simply can’t make ends meet anymore.”
The latest Food Banks of Quebec report reveals that over 875,000 monthly visits were recorded across the province’s network in the first quarter of 2025, compared to approximately 650,000 during the same period in 2023. Even more concerning is the demographic shift – working families now represent 38% of food bank users, up from 27% just three years ago.
Premier François Legault acknowledged the crisis during Question Period last week but pointed to global inflation factors beyond provincial control. “We’re seeing similar patterns across North America,” he stated. “Our government has increased the family allowance by 5% this year and implemented rental controls that are helping vulnerable households.”
Critics argue these measures fall short. Opposition housing critic Guillaume Cliche-Rivard countered that the government’s approach fails to address the root causes. “When someone working 40 hours a week can’t afford groceries in Quebec, we have a fundamental breakdown in our social contract,” he said during heated exchanges at the National Assembly.
Behind the statistics are thousands of personal stories. In Sherbrooke, Jean-Philippe Morin, a 42-year-old factory worker and father of two, describes visiting the local food bank for the first time in February. “My salary hasn’t kept up with inflation. Between housing costs and the kids’ needs, something had to give. I never imagined it would be food.”
The Quebec Collective for a Poverty-Free Quebec estimates that the actual food insecurity rate is likely double what food bank usage suggests, as many struggle silently or rely on family support. Their research indicates approximately 18% of Quebec households experienced some form of food insecurity in the past year.
Housing costs remain the primary driver behind increased food bank reliance. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reports that average rents in Montreal have increased 27% since 2021, while vacancy rates have dropped to 1.7% across the province.
Rural communities face additional challenges. In Gaspésie, where transportation costs compound food price increases, local food assistance programs report a 41% jump in demand. “We’re seeing elderly people choosing between medication and food,” says Isabelle Boudreau, coordinator of the regional food security coalition.
The provincial government recently announced a $45 million emergency fund for food banks, but many front-line workers question whether this addresses systemic issues. “We appreciate the support, but this is a band-aid solution,” explains Claude Lafortune from the Quebec Food Banks Federation. “We need sustainable policies addressing housing, wages, and social assistance rates.”
Some municipalities have launched their own initiatives. Laval implemented a “Food Security Action Plan” that includes community gardens on city property and streamlined permits for urban agriculture. The program has established 14 new community growing spaces since spring 2024, providing fresh produce for approximately 800 families.
Quebec’s minimum wage increased to $16.25 in May, yet food bank operators report this hasn’t stemmed the tide of new clients. Economists point to the widening gap between income growth and essential costs. A basket of grocery staples that cost $75 in 2021 now averages $107, according to Statistics Canada’s consumer price index.
Public health experts warn about the long-term consequences of food insecurity. Dr. Catherine Hamel from McGill University’s School of Population and Global Health notes, “We’re seeing increased rates of diabetes, hypertension, and mental health issues directly linked to nutritional deficiencies and food-related stress.”
Community responses are evolving beyond traditional food bank models. In Quebec City, Les Frigos Solidaires has placed 23 community refrigerators throughout neighborhoods where residents and businesses can donate surplus food. The grassroots initiative serves approximately 2,000 people weekly through its network.
As winter approaches, food banks are particularly concerned about the months ahead. Historically, donations decrease after the holiday season while demand typically rises due to higher heating costs. “January through March is always our most challenging period,” notes Tremblay.
For now, food banks continue adapting to meet growing needs. Many have extended hours, streamlined registration processes, and focused on dignity-centered approaches. But as Jean-Philippe puts it while picking up his family’s weekly food basket, “This was supposed to be temporary, just until things got better. I’m starting to wonder when that will happen.”
