Canada is Broke and Angry: A Nation in Crisis

Canada, a country long celebrated for its prosperity and quality of life, now faces a multifaceted crisis that has left many citizens broke and angry. From escalating living costs to a crumbling healthcare system, Canadians are experiencing unprecedented hardship. Let’s take a look at some current struggles, supported by statistics, revealing the depth of the crisis and calling for urgent leadership changes.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Trudeau announce a pledge of $5 billion in support of Ukraine. "There was a lot of conversations and Canada was one of the very early players to talk about how we could design this to make this feasible,"  Cynthia Termorshuizen. With cost of living soaring in Canada, many Canadians are upset at this announcement.

The cost of living in Canada has soared, placing immense pressure on households. According to Statistics Canada, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 6.7% year-over-year as of April 2023, the highest increase in decades. Food prices have been particularly affected, with an average increase of 10.3% over the past year. Staples such as meat, dairy, and vegetables have seen even sharper rises, making it increasingly difficult for families to afford basic groceries.

Adding to the financial strain is the steady increase in carbon taxes. As part of Canada’s climate action plan, carbon taxes have risen from $40 per tonne in 2021 to $50 per tonne in 2022, with plans to reach $170 per tonne by 2030. While these taxes aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they have also contributed to higher costs for goods and services, exacerbating the economic burden on Canadians.

The surge in food prices has led to widespread food insecurity. A recent report by Food Banks Canada reveals that nearly 6 million Canadians, or about 16% of the population, experienced food insecurity in 2022. Food banks, which serve as a lifeline for those in need, are overwhelmed. Usage has increased by 20% since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with some food banks reporting shortages and fearing they may soon collapse under the demand.

Homelessness in Canada has reached record highs. The Homeless Hub, a national research organization, estimates that on any given night, over 35,000 Canadians are homeless. Tent encampments have become a common sight in cities from Vancouver to Toronto. In Toronto alone, the number of people living in encampments increased by 81% between 2019 and 2023. The lack of affordable housing, coupled with rising living costs, has left many without shelter.

Canada’s healthcare system is under immense strain, particularly affecting the elderly. The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reports that wait times for specialist appointments have increased by 15% over the past year, with some patients waiting months for necessary procedures. Elective surgeries face even longer delays, causing significant distress and deteriorating health conditions for many.

The elderly are disproportionately affected by these delays. Seniors, who often require more frequent medical care, are facing longer wait times, which exacerbates their health issues and diminishes their quality of life. According to the National Institute on Aging, over 30% of Canadian seniors report having unmet healthcare needs, a troubling statistic that underscores the system’s deficiencies.

The job market is also in turmoil. Data from Statistics Canada shows a 3.6% decline in job vacancies over the past year. This decline signals a stagnating economy, with fewer opportunities for those seeking employment. The unemployment rate remains stubbornly high at 6.5%, reflecting the broader economic challenges and uncertainty facing the nation.

As these problems mount, frustration with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's leadership grows. Critics argue that Trudeau has failed to address these critical issues, allowing them to escalate to crisis levels. The inability to effectively manage the cost of living, healthcare, and employment has led to a widespread call for his resignation. “The prime minister himself thought about stepping down from leadership last year. I think he needs to rethink his decision and step down before Canadians make him.” says Richie Massia.

Canada stands at a pivotal moment. The struggles faced by its citizens are a clear indication that immediate and decisive action is needed. The rising costs of living, food insecurity, homelessness, healthcare challenges, and employment issues are not just statistics; they represent real people and families in distress. As the nation grapples with these compounding crises, it is evident that change is necessary. Whether through new policies or a change in leadership, the time has come for action to restore hope and stability to a nation in crisis.

Richie Massia

A Father’s Truth Parental Rights Network

CEO / Advocate / Editor