Rising costs leave more New Brunswickers seeking food assistance: report

A new report indicates food insecurity in New Brunswick has increased significantly over the last few years.

A new report indicates food insecurity in New Brunswick has increased significantly over the last few years. The report issued by Feed NB is based on the results of an environmental scan of 68 food banks, community kitchens, and shelters that began in March 2025. The scan was conducted by a consultant, Rick Hutchins, with 30 years of experience in the field.

Download the CTV News App for breaking news alerts and video on all the top stories Food bank use has gone up by 60 per cent since 2022 and community kitchens are serving 24 per cent more meals, according to the report. Rising costs for housing, groceries, transportation and utilities have put increasing pressure on household budgets, driving more families to seek food assistance. The report finds demand is growing fastest among working households, students, and newcomers to Canada.

Children and youth account for one-third of all individuals served by food banks and households whose primary income comes from employment saw usage rise by 159 per cent during the study period. “Food banks have been absorbing much of the pressure of affordability struggles and the growing inadequacy of household incomes across the province, serving increasing numbers of individuals who are struggling to afford life’s necessities,” reads the report. The organizations that serve those with food instability are also under significant strain.

The report points to aging infrastructure, volunteer shortages, staff burnout, and insufficient funding to keep pace with rising costs and increasingly complex client needs. “The current state of food banks in our province is precarious. Food banks and community kitchens in New Brunswick have become essential services rather than temporary solutions to food insecurity,” reads the report.

The report’s