Food insecurity is worsening in Chatham-Kent, with nearly one in four households now struggling to afford enough food, according to new data released by Chatham-Kent Public Health.
The 2025 Cost of Eating in CK infographic shows a significant increase from the previous year, when at least one in five households faced food insecurity. The latest figures indicate that close to 25 per cent of local families are now unable to buy the food they need.
Officials say the issue is not a lack of food, but a lack of income.
“Food insecurity in Chatham-Kent is driven by inadequate and insecure income, not a lack of food,” said Councillor Carmen McGregor, chair of the Chatham-Kent Food Policy Council. “When people do not earn enough to cover housing, transportation, and food, they’re forced into impossible choices. Policies that support stable and adequate income, including a basic income guarantee, are critical to reducing food insecurity.”
While local organizations continue to provide emergency food supports, public health officials note those services are only a short-term solution and do not address the root cause.
Food insecurity is also linked to serious health impacts, affecting both adults and children who lack consistent access to nutritious food.
“Food insecurity is fundamentally an income issue,” said Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, medical officer of health for Chatham-Kent Public Health. “Advancing policies that support stable and adequate income ensures that everyone in Chatham-Kent can live a healthier life.”
Chatham-Kent Public Health is encouraging residents to learn more about the issue, have open conversations about its causes and advocate for income-based solutions.
More information, including a household food insecurity dashboard, is available through Chatham-Kent Public Health.
