Ottawa Public Health survey shows low-income households have little to no money left after paying for rent, food [Video]

The cost of feeding a family of four increased $48 a month in Ottawa this year, according to a new report.

Now, Ottawa Public Health says the rising cost of food is leaving many low-income households with “little to no money” at the end of the month to pay for necessities.

The health unit’s 2024 Nutritious Food Basket Survey shows the monthly cost of healthy eating for a family of four is $1,244 in 2024, up from $1,196 in 2023 and $1,129 in 2022 (The 2022 and 2023 prices are adjusted for inflation).

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The survey measures the cost of basic eating that aligns with current nutrition recommendations from Canada’s food guide and typical food purchasing patterns.

“Results consistently show that individuals and households with incomes from low wage employment and social assistance supports cannot afford …