Food: More Than Just Sustenance

What does food mean to you? For all of us, it’s a source of energy and a tasty way to make it through the day. Yet food has much more meaning to it than mere calories: it can join cultures, assist in celebrations, and even represent our heritage. Food has multiple meanings and even more uses, and when we have access to food, we are often more satisfied as a whole. However, for many Torontonians, access to food is a daily struggle. Those who live in low-income neighbourhoods, and those who are homeless, are often unable to secure nutritious food for themselves, and this can severely impact their quality of life.  Food does not just represent sustenance; the right foods represent health, well-being, and happiness. For many of the poor and the homeless in the city, food insecurity has robbed them of a full life. Those who are not able to gain regular access to food may be isolated from their communities, especially when food-related events help to tie a community together.

Due to a lack of funds, those who suffer from food insecurity will often purchase low-cost items at the cost of their health. Cheap boxed foods that are easily prepared, as well as inexpensive fast food items, are often part of the daily menu. While food banks and other charitable food programs can assist with groceries, the quality and quantity of food can vary greatly, and individuals may not receive all the food they require from a food bank. Additionally, food donations may not be culturally sensitive, and this can make situations more difficult, especially when a family is new to the city or country. In order to maintain good mental and physical health, it is essential that people receive the proper amounts and types of foods to sustain them.  foodSPEAKS! aims to fill this gap by making sure food is easily accessible to those in need, and is culturally sensitive as well, in an environment that is open, supportive, and respectful of people and the food choices they make.