Food insecurity in Ottawa; What is a Food Desert
By Julia Smith, General Member
Food insecurity is an issue that continues to plague communities worldwide, including some of Canada's most vibrant urban areas. In the heart of Ottawa, the nation's capital, lies West Centretown, a district encompassing neighbourhoods like Little Italy and Chinatown. A recent study commissioned by the Somerset West Community Health Centre has brought to light the harsh realities of food insecurity in this region, labelling it a "food desert." This term describes areas where vulnerable populations lack access to affordable, nutritious food.
The Food Security Feasibility Study, published on November 24, underscores the critical issue of food insecurity in West Centretown. This study was initiated in response to feedback from the area's low-income residents, who expressed concerns about the accessibility and affordability of food. The study results were eye-opening: a staggering 28.2 percent of West Centretown's residents are classified as low-income, compared to the Ottawa average of 12.6 percent. This alarming statistic signifies immediate action to safeguard the health and well-being of hundreds of individuals at risk of going hungry or consuming unhealthy foods. Food insecurity affects specific demographics within West Centretown even more acutely. As many as 38 percent of youth aged 15 to 24 fall into the lower-income bracket, while 40 percent of seniors live in low-income households.
The Somerset West Community Health Centre commissioned a study in response to feedback from the area’s low-income residents on the accessibility and affordability of food, to determine the number of individuals living in poverty, to see what change in the area needed to be made. The results of the study were simply astonishing. 28.2 percent of the area’s residents are classified as low-income, compared to the Ottawa average of 12.6 percent. This deemed that prominent changes needed to be made, to safeguard the health of hundreds of individuals at risk of going hungry or damaging their health by consistently eating unhealthy foods.
Efforts are underway to rectify the food desert problem in West Centretown. New stores are being constructed beneath a luxury apartment building, offering a glimmer of hope for the community. Among these new establishments is Mercato Zacconi, an upscale Italian grocer. However, concerns linger about whether these new stores will cater to the diverse income levels present in the neighbourhood.
While West Centretown does have several fast-food and restaurant options, most are still out of reach financially for those affected by food insecurity. The closest grocery options, Metro, Farm Boy, and Food Basics, are several kilometres away, making it inconvenient for residents to regularly access fresh and nutritious food. There are limited food banks in the area as well.
Food insecurity takes a toll not only on physical health but also on mental well-being. Individuals experiencing food insecurity are at a higher risk of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts. These findings underscore the urgent need to address food insecurity as a holistic health issue.
Several changes are imperative to transform West Centretown from a food desert into a thriving, food-secure community. Prices and food options must become healthier and more affordable. This requires a collaborative effort from local businesses, policymakers, and community organizations to ensure every resident can access nutritious food. Ensuring food security for all residents of West Centretown, and other neighbourhoods in Canada facing similar issues is not just a matter of policy; it's a fundamental step toward creating a healthier, more equitable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Interesting graphs highlighting the holistic healthcare aspect of this issue:
Please click on the following links for more information:
Food is Power.Org- Shocking Statistics:
https://foodispower.org/access-health/food-deserts/
Food Dessers in Different Canadian Cities:
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/934a49ffcdf347aa8cec1ccde13978c5