Healthy Eating Still Not an Option in Peterborough for Residents on Low-Incomes
Written by admin, September 12, 2012
September 12, 2012 – Public Health Releases 2012 Report “Limited Incomes: A Recipe For Hunger”
Today Peterborough Public Health released its annual Limited Incomes: A Recipe For Hunger report that shows Peterborough’s most vulnerable residents continue to suffer from an inability to eat nutritiously based on current food costs.
“It is distressing to see the health of thousands of local residents compromised because social assistance programs don’t provide enough income for them to afford nutritious foods,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “It’s well known that helping people gain food security not only improves their overall quality of life but reduces future strain on the health system. With ten percent of our local households experiencing food insecurity, this is a public health crisis that requires the urgent attention and cooperation of all levels of government.”
While the report notes local food prices have increased by 6.5% over the past two years, the main issue for residents is not the cost of food, but that their incomes are too low. For example, after paying for his shelter costs, a single man receiving Ontario Works benefits would experience a monthly deficit of $261 if he spent the $264 required for a nutritious diet, and this does not include other basic necessities such as clothing, transportation and medical costs.
Dr. Salvaterra said she is very concerned about this local issue worsening in the face of cuts by the province to funding for Discretionary Benefits and housing benefits accessed by people on social assistance.
To access a copy of the 2012 Limited Incomes: A Recipe For Hunger report, please visit www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca, click on “About Us” and then “Plans and Reports”.
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For further information, please contact:
Brittany Cadence
Communications Supervisor
(705) 743-1000, ext. 391