The Eroding Safety Net in Canada’s Largest Cities: How Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary Are Struggling to Maintain Equitable Access to Basic Needs

Canada is known for its strong social safety net, which has helped to reduce poverty and provide equal access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, food, and housing. However, some critical components of this safety net have started to deteriorate in the country’s largest cities.

In Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary, residents are facing issues such as unaffordable housing, long wait times to see a doctor, food insecurity, and a growing drug epidemic that have reached crisis levels. These challenges are making it difficult for residents to cope with their daily lives while the population continues to grow at a rapid rate.

Despite these challenges, Canada remains committed to providing its citizens with a high quality of life. However, policymakers and community leaders must work together to find solutions that address these critical issues and ensure that all Canadians have access to the essential resources they need to thrive. By doing so, Canada can continue to be a leader in social programs that support its citizens’ well-being.