A 30-year high in food, rent, and gas prices is putting pressure on families across the country. Just as families need them more than ever, food banks are being stretched to the limit.

Statistics shows almost a quarter of Canadians don’t eat as much as we should because there isn’t enough money for food. The number of people turning to food banks is increasing among seniors, students, and employed individuals. Compared to 2019, the use of food banks in Canada rose by 35% in 2022. There is an urgent need for our support in communities across Canada where food banks operate.

Markham Elite Lions Club supports few food banks like Share and Care by providing them with the everyday necessary food items including personal hygiene items.

We need adequate housing for our sense of dignity, safety, inclusion, and the ability to contribute to our neighbourhoods. According to the State of Homelessness in Canada 2016 report, there are at least 235,000 homeless Canadians each year. On any given night, roughly 35,000 Canadians experience homelessness in Canada.The availability of affordable and safe housing is important to the well-being of Canadians. Sadly, some Canadians find themselves homeless due to inability to secure stable housing. Among all shelter types, Ontario had the highest number of usual residents residing in shelters on Census day. Ontario is also the province with the most inhabitants in the country.

MELC took the initiative to help the Shelter Homes in the Greater Toronto Area. Currently we are associated with three Shelters Homes. We provide them cooked meals, clothing, beddings. During Winter time, we do provide them with winter clothing & accessories as well as personal hygiene items.