As the upcoming Nunavut election approaches, the issue of expensive food is a major concern for many residents. Nearly 60% of households in Nunavut faced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate in Canada according to Statistics Canada.
In Gjoa Haven, Kenneth Mamimalik expressed his struggles with the rising cost of daily essentials, hoping for a change to make life easier for everyone in the community. Similarly, in Taloyoak, Fabien Kongelik highlighted the challenges faced by families going hungry and seeking help online or through radio broadcasts.
A report by researchers at Toronto Metropolitan University revealed a 22.7% increase in the cost of a grocery basket in the Qikiqtaaluk region between 2022 and 2023, significantly higher than the national average of 12%. The data was collected from grocery receipts in Baffin communities through the Inuit Child First Initiative food voucher program.
With changes to the Inuit Child First Initiative, families in Igloolik have been hit hard by the program’s termination, leading to food insecurity. Carolyn Tapardjuk from Qupanuaq in Igloolik emphasized the urgent need for solutions to address the critical food gap left by the program’s end.
In Rankin Inlet, Angnaluaaq Friesen shared the increasing demand for assistance at the Ikurraq Food Bank, especially for baby products and basic groceries previously supported by the ICFI. Friesen suggested that communities explore resources from Food Banks Canada for establishing local food banks.
As Nunavut gears up for the election, communities are advocating for sustainable solutions to food affordability. Whether through reinstating food voucher programs, community-driven food banks, or other local support initiatives, residents are calling on leaders to take tangible actions to ensure food accessibility and affordability throughout the territory.